Thai PM Defends South Korea Ban on Illegal Workers
South Korea blacklisted seasonal workers from four northeastern Thai provinces for 2026 after they violated immigration laws, and Prime Minister Anutin said the government won't assist them since they broke the law themselves.
SURAT THANI — May 13, 2026: Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated Wednesday that the government cannot assist Thai workers banned by South Korea for violating immigration or labor laws, emphasizing that individuals must bear responsibility for their actions abroad.
During an interview at 14:20 while visiting Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to reports that South Korea had blacklisted seasonal agricultural and fisheries workers from four northeastern Thai provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—for the entire year of 2026.
Anutin said he had not yet received official confirmation but stressed that countries have the right to ban foreign workers who enter or work illegally. He drew a parallel to illegal foreign workers in Thailand, who are similarly banned. He referenced ongoing inspections on Koh Phangan, where authorities discovered unlicensed accommodations, illegal villas, and unlicensed businesses. Even if individuals claim to be investing in Thailand, breaking the law negates that, he said. The same principle applies to Thai workers abroad: if they violate local laws, those countries have the right to ban them. "Therefore, one simply must not break the law," he stated.
When asked about the government's plan to resolve the issue, Anutin replied directly: "We will not. We cannot help because you broke the law yourself." However, he emphasized that the Thai government would provide full assistance if Thai citizens working legally overseas faced unfair treatment or abuse.
Regarding whether South Korea's restrictions could impact Thai tourists, Anutin said, "One rotten fish spoils the whole basket." He urged Thai workers abroad to act responsibly and stressed that labor issues and tourism should not be conflated. He rejected concerns that Thai tourists would face increasing difficulties entering South Korea, noting that the country continues to benefit economically from Thai visitors who spend money on shopping and beauty services. "Thailand is an important economic partner for South Korea," Anutin emphasized. He added that should problems arise, he would address them directly with the South Korean government, noting that officials from both countries maintain strong relations.
