In a startling incident late Wednesday night, a confrontation between a Thai man and a Korean tourist turned violent in front of the Runway Market on Pattaya Second Road, Nongprue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. The altercation resulted in Mr. Park, a 38-year-old Korean tourist, losing four teeth after being kicked by the Thai man, identified as Mr. Bas. The aggressor has since surrendered himself to authorities on Thursday afternoon.
According to witnesses, the dispute erupted when Mr. Bas, accompanied by a python and a Siberian owl, displayed his exotic pets to international tourists near the market. Despite signage prohibiting photography, Mr. Park, visiting Thailand for the first time, attempted to capture the spectacle on his mobile phone. This action led to a verbal exchange between Mr. Bas and Mr. Park, escalating into a physical confrontation.
In the heat of the argument, Mr. Bas kicked Mr. Park twice in the face, causing severe injuries including the loss of four teeth. Following the incident, Mr. Park, accompanied by his brother and girlfriend, lodged a complaint at the Pattaya City Police Station at 1:30 a.m. on May 30th, detailing the assault and the resulting dental injuries.
Ms. Mae, Mr. Park’s girlfriend, explained that they were unaware of the photography restriction due to her not wearing contact lenses. She clarified that they intended to zoom in on the owl, not to take unauthorized photographs. Expressing shock over the escalation of events, she emphasized that they never anticipated such violence and that onlookers intervened to prevent further harm.
Later that day, at 12:05 p.m., Mr. Bas voluntarily surrendered himself to police custody. Pol. Lt. Col. Nawin Theeranant, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, informed reporters that Mr. Bas faces initial charges of assault, pending further medical evaluation of Mr. Park’s injuries.
In a conciliatory gesture, Mr. Bas expressed regret for his actions, apologizing to the injured tourist and vowing to provide full compensation for medical expenses. He acknowledged displaying signs in English prohibiting photography and urged tourists to adhere to regulations. Despite the legal ramifications, Mr. Bas affirmed his commitment to allowing due process to prevail.
Mr. Park, displaying a forgiving attitude, recognized the sincerity of Mr. Bas’s apology and expressed his intention to return to Thailand, citing his fondness for the country despite the unfortunate incident.
