Thai authorities have initiated legal proceedings against a Chinese social media influencer, Ziyu Wang, accusing her of violating visa regulations. This development comes in the wake of a controversial video Wang produced, which portrayed a popular nightlife district in Bangkok as unsafe for women. Police Major General Phanthana Nutchanart, Deputy Chief of Thailand’s Immigration Bureau, revealed that Wang, 28, had been selling goods online while in Thailand, a breach of visa laws. She had initially arrived in Bangkok on November 2, holding a tourist visa.
“We have summoned her and informed her of the charge of violating (her) visa,” stated Nutchanart.
The incident is unfolding at a delicate time for Thailand, which is striving to attract Chinese tourists back to the country following the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Wang, a prominent figure with a social media following exceeding 3 million, primarily engaged with audiences on Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok, as well as certain Western social media platforms inaccessible within China.
The controversy ignited on December 5 when Wang shared a video on Douyin depicting her walking through the streets near Nana Plaza, known for its adult-themed bars. In the video, she suggested the area was unsafe for women, capturing the attention of several Western men looking at her. The clip quickly went viral, drawing criticism in Thailand for allegedly tarnishing the country’s image and exaggerating safety concerns.
Subsequently, Thai police summoned Wang, who admitted to creating the video. Following the summons, she issued a public apology, emphasizing that she did not intend to harm Thailand’s reputation. In a video posted on Facebook, Wang stated, “I understand that my words have caused unintended offense and misinterpretations, and I deeply regret any negative impact they may have had on Nana District and the Thai people.”
Wang expressed her respect for Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit, asserting her commitment to promoting a positive and accurate portrayal of Thai culture to a wider audience.
The case underscores the potential legal repercussions for social media influencers when their content triggers public backlash in foreign jurisdictions. As Wang faces charges related to visa violations, the incident sheds light on the challenges influencers may encounter abroad and the importance of exercising discretion in content creation, particularly when it pertains to sensitive topics that can impact a country’s image. Thailand’s response reflects the nation’s resolve to safeguard its reputation and maintain a positive environment for tourism, especially during the ongoing recovery phase from the pandemic.