The article reports that several gyms run by fitness chains have closed recently, leaving customers unsure about the prepaid memberships they bought. This matters because many people pay a large amount before using the service.

The article says gyms often push long‑term memberships that last one or two years and require an upfront payment of tens of millions of VND. If a gym shuts down, customers may not be able to use the whole membership.

The article notes that customers have little way to know a gym’s financial health before signing a long‑term contract, and refunds are uncertain, especially if the business goes bankrupt. The same risk also exists for language centers, private courses, and spas.

The article asks why customers should be asked to pay large sums in advance when they may lose the money. It calls for stronger consumer safeguards.