RATCHABURI, THAILAND – Two South Korean YouTubers triggered official action after being overcharged for clothes at the famed Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi.
Authorities intervene after viral video
On 11 November 2024, officials from the Ratchaburi Provincial Commercial Affairs Office questioned Prapaporn, a clothing vendor, following a video by YouTubers Cullen and Jung filmed at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. The recording showed Prapaporn demanding 600 baht for a shirt and 400 baht for a pair of trousers.
“I don’t buy if it’s expensive,”
said Jung, YouTuber during the exchange at the stall.
After brief bargaining, the influencers paid 900 baht (approximately 22.50 euros) for both items — significantly higher than typical market prices. The Commercial Affairs Office confirmed that she violated regulations by failing to display price tags and imposed a 2,000-baht (around 50 euros) fine.
Online response sparks investigation
Viewers of the ‘Cullen HateBerry’ YouTube channel quickly identified the inflated costs. Comments from Thai followers described the incident as unjustified.
“That is pure tourist fraud,”
said Thai online viewers in response to the video.
Regular online listings for similar garments indicated prices of 100–200 baht for trousers and 200–400 baht for shirts. The outrage prompted authorities to initiate an investigation within days of publication.
Vendor fined and apologises
During questioning, Prapaporn admitted selling the clothing for 900 baht but insisted the garments were of “high quality” and “hand-embroidered.” She later offered to present the clothing as a gift to the YouTubers. Despite public pressure, the administrative penalty remained modest at 2,000 baht.
YouTubers decline refund
Represented by their Thai acquaintance Judy, Cullen and Jung informed followers that they would not claim reimbursement and instead called for fairer trade practices.
“They only wish for fair prices for all visitors,”
said Judy, Thai friend of the YouTubers after the inquiry.
Repeat complaints over market pricing
The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has previously faced scrutiny for similar behaviour. In June 2024, reports surfaced that a Thai woman accompanied by foreign friends was charged 9,500 baht for a short boat trip. Other creators have documented 2,500-baht photo sessions with snakes offered to tourists.
Officials have since pledged stricter enforcement of consumer protection rules across Ratchaburi province, citing the need to restore confidence among international travellers.
Key points:
– Fine imposed on vendor: 2,000 baht for lacking displayed prices.
– YouTubers paid 900 baht for items usually valued at 300–600 baht combined.
– Incident occurred at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand’s most visited attractions.
– Prior complaints: 9,500-baht boat ride and 2,500-baht photo shoot overcharges.
The Ratchaburi authorities stated they will continue market monitoring in response to recurring complaints of systematic overcharging against tourists.