I’ve heard the same from people I know who have been there. It’s fine if you’re a tourist but if you try to get involved in society is when the government gets up your ass.
There are pros/cons everywhere.
During Covid, my friend and his family were forced to leave their apartment due to quarantine regulations. It was either that or be forced to stay inside for an unknown amount of time.
They lived in Thailand for 3 months. Since they could afford to leave.
There are some very insane rules in China, but on the surface it's a cool place to visit, however i would never live there.
When i went there on vacation 10 years ago, it was very relaxed and low key. No drama anywhere, but you do not want to get involved with the authorities, they basically make up the laws on a daily basis, but Americans are protected for the most part.