Park Hang-seo, the coach of Kanchanaburi FC, is at the center of controversy after being subjected to racial taunts by some Thai fans during a Thai professional football match. Fans shouted "kimchi" at Park and made derogatory comments about the appearance of his player, John Bazo, prompting Park to confront the spectators directly. The Thai Football Association (FAT) has initiated an investigation into the incident, which has drawn criticism from Vietnamese readers.
According to Vietnamese media Dan Tri and Thailand's Siam Sports, the FAT is looking into the incident that occurred on November 1 during a Thai League 2 match, where some fans directed insulting remarks at Park and Bazo.
The controversy erupted after the match held at Nong Prue Stadium in Chonburi Province, where Park's Kanchanaburi FC drew 2-2 with Pattaya United. Following the game, some Pattaya fans repeatedly shouted "kimchi" at Park. During this, derogatory comments about Bazo's appearance were also made. Local media pointed out that using Korean food to mock Park's nationality constitutes racism.
Park Hang-seo Outraged by 'Kimchi' Taunts; Thai FA Launches Investigation
Park was infuriated by the provocations and approached the fans to protest. Security personnel intervened to prevent a confrontation, and Kanchanaburi FC president Prawat Kitamakun requested that Park and the team move to the stadium's corridor.
Kanchanaburi FC issued an official statement condemning the racist behavior shortly after the incident. The club stated, "Football is a bridge of friendship and equality," emphasizing that everyone deserves respect regardless of skin color and that racism and division must be rejected. As the controversy grew, Nualpan Ramsam, president of the Thai Football Association, instructed the league's governing body to gather relevant materials and verify the facts before proceeding with disciplinary actions.
Additionally, the Thai Football Association declared that it would not tolerate racism both inside and outside the stadium, as well as on social media.
According to Thai football disciplinary regulations, spectators who engage in racist behavior can face fines ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 baht (approximately $400 to $1,200). If multiple individuals are involved, the fine can increase to between 20,000 and 40,000 baht. The home club may also face sanctions. In cases of severe violations, penalties can include fines of up to 100,000 baht and a ban on using the home stadium for three matches. Repeated offenses could lead to a deduction of three points.
Vietnamese Fans Outraged: Mocking Opponents is Different from Insulting Nationality
Following the incident, Vietnamese fans expressed their outrage over the actions of the Thai spectators. However, some readers emphasized the need to respond firmly to racism while ensuring that the facts are accurately verified. One reader noted, "While the coach's tactics can be criticized, that is a professional issue related to football," adding that allegations of racism are serious and should be handled responsibly.
Another reader remarked, "Mocking opponents is common, but insulting someone's nationality is a completely different matter," asserting that clarifying this boundary is essential for football to unite fans rather than divide them.
There were also calls for a cautious response against racism. One reader stated, "No one should remain silent in the face of racist remarks," but emphasized that responses should be based on verified facts and that emotions should not overshadow fairness.
Some voices suggested a need to reflect on the culture of support in stadiums. Another reader commented, "Now is not the time to focus solely on winning or losing, but rather a moment for both sides to discuss stadium culture," adding that sometimes a timely apology can hold more significance than numerous online debates.
Concerns were raised about generalizing the actions of specific fans to the entire Thai football fanbase. One reader cautioned, "We should not generalize all fans based on one controversy," advocating for a respectful discussion while verifying allegations and protecting victims if necessary.
Another reader pointed out, "While passionate support is commendable, the moment it turns into belittling others, it ceases to be support," suggesting that Thai fans would not want their country's football image associated with such behavior.
Meanwhile, Kanchanaburi FC currently sits sixth in the Thai League 2 standings with 14 points following this draw, trailing leaders Khon Kaen United by seven points.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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