Wang Ziyu, a prominent Chinese influencer with a following of three million on her Douyin account “Thailand 77Seven,” is at the center of a controversy that could lead to her deportation from Thailand. Wang’s recent video, critiquing Bangkok’s famous Nana red light district as unsafe and disparaging its visitors, has drawn the scrutiny of Thai authorities, who accuse her of discrediting the country’s reputation as a tourist haven.
The video, posted on December 5, captures Wang’s late-night exploration of the Nana district, a hotspot known for its vibrant nightlife. In the clip, Wang labels the area as perilous, particularly for women traveling alone, and describes the majority of its patrons as “sleazy.” This portrayal of one of Bangkok’s popular tourist destinations prompted a swift online backlash and government intervention, leading Wang to retract the video and issue a public apology in multiple languages.
Despite her apology and assurances of responsible future conduct, Thai police continued their investigation, uncovering another breach of regulations. Wang was reportedly working in Thailand without the necessary permits, a violation of the country’s visa policies. This infraction could result in a substantial fine, deportation, and potentially a ban from re-entering Thailand.
This incident has ignited a debate on Chinese social media, with opinions sharply divided. While some defend Wang’s right to express her views, others criticize her pursuit of online traffic at the expense of respect and sensitivity. This case adds to the growing list of controversies involving online influencers and their conduct, raising questions about the boundaries of acceptable behavior in public spaces and the responsibilities of social media personalities.
In similar cases, influencers have drawn criticism for their actions, such as practicing yoga at a sacred historical site or hiring men to carry them in a sedan chair up a mountain, sparking debates over public decency and the ethical implications of their content. Wang’s situation highlights the complex dynamics of internet fame and the impact of social media on perceptions of culture and tourism.
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