Thai Tourism Authority Apologizes Over Bangkok Incident Involving Chinese Visitor

Thailand's tourism authority apologized today after a Chinese visitor was forcefully removed from a fan event in Bangkok, saying it would work with organizers and partners to strengthen event management and protections for international guests.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand said in a statement that it valued every visitor and the friendship and trust built across borders. It apologized for the inconvenience caused by the incident and thanked tourists for their understanding and continued support.

The authority said it would improve communication and coordination with relevant partners and event organizers, while urging them to strengthen event planning, on-site management and participant services. It also said organizers should improve information releases and communication at event venues, and enhance their ability to prevent risks and respond to emergencies.

The statement came after an incident at a GMMTV fan gathering at the Samyan shopping complex in Bangkok on July 25, when a Chinese woman said security staff ordered her to leave and took her fan merchandise. She said she had arrived at about 6am and had proof that she reserved her place in line, but that staff did not verify the evidence before removing her.

GMMTV said in a July 26 clarification that an outside contractor involved in handling the matter had used more force than necessary in part of the incident. The company said it did not support violence, expressed regret over the impact and suspended the worker pending an investigation. It also denied a rumor that it had sued the worker and said the incident did not represent any policy targeting a particular nationality.

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand said it had received the visitor's account and urged the relevant parties to establish the facts and handle the matter properly. The embassy said it would provide necessary assistance within its responsibilities to protect the Chinese citizen's lawful rights.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand said it appreciated the cooperation of relevant organizations and would continue improving the experience of international visitors at events in the country.