·
70 channels
Vietnamese television culture centers heavily around VTV, the national broadcaster, which operates numerous channels catering to diverse tastes. While commercial channels exist, VTV's reach and influence are, shaping much of the country's viewing habits. Primetime typically kicks off around 7 PM, coinciding with family dinner, and often features a mix of news, locally produced dramas, and popular variety shows. These dramas, sometimes serialized over many episodes, often explore social themes or historical narratives, resonating deeply with viewers. Imported dramas, particularly from South Korea and China, are incredibly popular, almost always dubbed into Vietnamese rather than subtitled, which is a common practice for most foreign entertainment. Live sports, especially football, draws massive audiences, with national team matches bringing cities to a standstill. VTV channels are the primary carriers for these events, often with extensive pre- and post-match analysis. Beyond entertainment, state-run channels also carry a significant amount of educational and cultural programming, reflecting a national commitment to preserving heritage and promoting social values. The news delivery on VTV is generally authoritative and structured, presenting a clear, consistent national narrative. Compared to some of its Southeast Asian neighbors, Vietnam's TV landscape feels more unified under a public broadcasting umbrella, with less fragmentation from purely commercial entities, though entertainment remains a core draw. This blend creates a unique viewing experience, deeply interwoven with daily Vietnamese life and national identity.