Bangkok: Tourism Minister Atthakorn acknowledged that a popular YouTuber’s video of him dancing shirtless in Japan has negatively impacted the image of Thai tourists and urged them to respect foreign cultures.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, addressed the criticism surrounding the viral video. The video, which features a Thai YouTuber stripping and dancing in Japan, has raised concerns about its impact on the perception of Thai tourists visiting the country. While Mr. Atthakorn admitted the potential negative effects, he noted that he had not yet viewed the video himself. He emphasized that although he cannot prohibit such actions due to individual rights, he has been actively campaigning to promote respectful behavior among Thais living abroad.

Mr. Atthakorn highlighted the importance of respecting local cultures and regulations while traveling. He urged Thai tourists to be mindful of their actions, as negative behavior could tarnish the country’s image. The minister has been particularly focused on encouraging tourists traveling abroad to act responsibly, as their conduct can have broader implications for Thailand’s reputation.

When questioned about efforts to communicate with foreigners to prevent stereotypes of Thai tourists, Mr. Atthakorn stated that ongoing communication efforts have been in place. He reiterated the importance of maintaining a positive image and fostering understanding between Thai tourists and the international community.