Thai FM Orders Probe Into Chinese Fan Incident

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has ordered a fact-finding investigation into allegations of excessive force by a security guard against a Chinese national at the International Novel Festival 2026 in Bangkok. The incident prompted the Chinese Embassy to urge Thai authorities for a prompt investigation. Speaking on Tuesday, Sihasak stated that authorities would first establish the facts before taking further action. "We have ordered an investigation to determine exactly what happened. Incidents like this can occur," he said. Regarding the large number of Thai social media users criticizing the Chinese Embassy's Facebook page following its statement, Sihasak expressed understanding of the embassy's right to issue a public explanation. "We understand people's feelings, but it is better to establish the facts and ensure fairness for all parties," he said. When asked whether Thailand would coordinate with the Chinese Embassy on the matter, Sihasak indicated that discussions should wait until the investigation is complete. "Let's establish the facts first. Once the investigation is finished, we can discuss the matter. We must ensure fairness for all sides." The controversy stems from an altercation during the International Novel Festival 2026, where a Chinese attendee was forcibly removed from a reserved seating area by an event security staff member. The incident sparked heated debate online in both Thailand and China. Organizer GMMTV later acknowledged that excessive force had been used by an outsourced security worker, apologized for the incident, and suspended the staff member pending the outcome of an investigation. The company also denied online claims that it had filed legal action against the Chinese attendee. The post Thai FM orders probe into Chinese fan incident appeared first on Khaosod English.