Thailand Debunks Abduction Claims,Details Status of south Korean Nationals
Recent reports from South Korean media outlets alleging the abduction of 11 South Korean citizens in Thailand are inaccurate,according to the Thai Immigration Bureau. A thorough inquiry confirms that seven individuals have already safely returned to south Korea, and four never actually entered the country.
Pol Maj Gen Cherngron Rimpadee, deputy commissioner and bureau spokesman, addressed the concerns stemming from reports in The Korea Herald and The Korea Economic Daily on Tuesday evening. he emphasized the bureau’s commitment to transparency and the safety of all visitors.
The Immigration Bureau, under the direction of Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyaluck, instantly launched a verification process. This involved meticulously checking identities and travel records of all individuals named in the South Korean reports. The findings revealed a nuanced situation, categorized as follows:
1. Individuals Who Entered and Departed Thailand Normally:
* Kim Younghyun, 30, arrived April 11 and departed April 14 via Chiang Mai airport on flight KE668.
* Lim Seunghyeon,34,arrived March 23 and departed April 16 via Suvarnabhumi Airport on flight TG652.
* Park Gunwook, 33, arrived February 20 and departed June 4 via Suvarnabhumi Airport on flight BX748.
* ryu Hansu, 30, arrived May 7 and departed May 10 to Cambodia via Suvarnabhumi Airport on flight VZ722.
* Jeong Kihoon, 37, arrived august 22 and departed July 25 via Suvarnabhumi Airport on flight ZE512.
2. Individuals Deported to South Korea:
* Kim Gyeonghyeon, 30, entered Thailand via Sa Kaeo province on May 31 and was deported July 1 on flight TG 656. He was later blacklisted due to alleged involvement in a call-center scam.
* Noh Kidong, 34, entered the country April 12 and was deported August 12 for overstaying his visa.
3. Individuals With No Record of Entry:
* In Seoungkyo
* Yook Geunyoung
* Lee Sangwon
* Park Choonhwan
The Immigration Bureau has shared these detailed findings with the South Korean embassy. This proactive step demonstrates a commitment to international cooperation and clear communication.
Moreover, the bureau is enhancing traveler awareness. immigration officers at airports are now actively alerting foreign tourists,especially those traveling alone or utilizing the free visa scheme,about the potential risks of illegal employment opportunities in neighboring countries.As the beginning of the year, over 5,000 tourists have received these crucial warnings.
Joint checkpoints have also been established with security agencies along border areas, particularly in Tak province. These checkpoints are focused on screening individuals attempting to cross into Myanmar, aiming to prevent exploitation.
This situation mirrors previous instances of misinformation portraying Thailand as unsafe. Pol Maj Gen Cherngron noted similar narratives have circulated regarding Ethiopian nationals and a Belarusian model. It’s importent to remember that Thailand remains a safe and welcoming destination for visitors.
If you are planning a trip to Thailand, rest assured that authorities are dedicated to your safety and well-being.You can travel with confidence knowing that the Immigration Bureau is actively working to address misinformation and protect visitors from potential harm.
