By Bae Ji-sook
Staff Reporter
Noisy nightclubs can't open their roofs unless equipped with completely soundproof systems, a court ruled Wednesday.
Suwon District Court ordered the city government to withdraw its permission to a nightclub to open its roof at night, saying the residents nearby have the right not to be bothered by the noise.
According to the judiciary, 81 residents near the club filed a suit against the city, demanding the withdrawal of permission because it could severely affect their sleep and right to live in a tranquil environment.
The nightclub fought back, saying it would only play quiet music while the roof was open and that they were planning to spray artificial snow as a feast for the eye. "Opening the roof is a huge trend among nightclubs nationwide. We have the right to do business."
"The club has barely equipped a soundproofing system to block noise spreading to nearby residential areas. It is also unnecessary for the business," the court ruling said.
An administrative commission accepted the night club's application to open its roof last September. The residents filed the application with the court to cancel the commission's decision.