Abstract

This study examines youth voices in the development of cultural life in Ho Chi Minh City across three dimensions: priorities in cultural participation and experiences, barriers to cultural access, and expectations of the cultural environment. It draws on survey data collected by the research team as part of a Vietnam National University–level research project involving 333 young people living, studying, and working in Ho Chi Minh City. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation. The findings indicate that young people have diverse cultural needs, flexibly combine in-person and online experiences, and value entertainment, opportunities to broaden their knowledge, and exposure to new values. However, costs, limited income, time constraints, and transportation difficulties remain substantial barriers. The study argues that young people’s priorities, barriers, and expectations are important expressions of their voices, highlighting the need to shift from cultural development for young people to cultural development with young people.

Keywords: Cultural access, cultural life, digital transformation, Ho Chi Minh City, youth, youth voices.