Chinese Embassy Demands Thailand Probe Excessive Force at Fan Event
A Chinese fan was forcibly restrained by security staff at a Bangkok fan event on July 25 after a dispute over line-cutting, sparking complaints of excessive force that prompted the Chinese Embassy to demand a Thai investigation.
An international dispute has erupted following a clash between Thai event staff and a Chinese fan at the JuniorMark gathering during the 2026 International Novel Festival at Siam Square on July 25. The incident drew heavy criticism and spread across Chinese social media, with online users contending that staff overreacted. Thai witnesses claimed the Chinese fan cut in line by removing reserved merchandise from Thai fans and replacing it with her own, prompting staff to intervene and eventually ask her to leave. When she refused and a physical struggle ensued, the fan kicked a female staff member, leading security to apply a chokehold and forcibly restrain her on the ground.
The Chinese fan countered that she had arrived at 6:00 a.m. and placed her umbrella to reserve her spot in the usual manner, denying she had cut in line and providing photographic evidence. She alleged that staff never examined her proof but instead used excessive force, confiscated her phone, and applied pressure to her neck. She claimed her kick was defensive before being thrown to the ground, damaging her clothes and accessories, with her official merchandise bags seized.
On July 27, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand issued a statement regarding the incident, noting it had received a complaint from the Chinese citizen about excessive use of force by security personnel. The embassy stated that the event organizer had acknowledged "using excessive force beyond what the situation warranted" and called on relevant Thai authorities to expedite fact-finding and resolve the matter promptly. The embassy committed to providing necessary assistance to the citizen and protecting her lawful rights and interests.
On July 26, GMMTV released a clarification acknowledging that security personnel used excessive force in certain moments and expressing regret for the incident and its impact on those involved. The company noted that the security officer in question was a contracted external worker, not a permanent employee, and has suspended his employment pending completion of the investigation. GMMTV denied reports that it had filed legal action against the individual involved, clarifying that no such lawsuit was filed. The company affirmed it has no policy of discrimination.
