BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA – A Thai national working illegally in South Korea awoke in an immigration office after a night of heavy drinking, now facing deportation. The unusual case gained online attention when a distressed Thai friend sought help on social media, though the post was later deleted amid widespread ridicule.
Drunk Truck Ride
The man had been drinking heavily and lost consciousness in a taxi. The driver, unable to rouse him, took him to the nearest police station.
However, the man did not wake up there. Instead, he later found himself in an immigration office in Gwangju, an apparent consequence of his employment status quickly coming to light.
Desperate Rescue Fails
A Thai woman residing in South Korea attempted to secure bail for him. She even shared photos of prepared cash but was unable to reach the police station in time.
She expressed her anguish:
I don’t know what to say. Let this not happen again. He was drunk and put in a taxi. The driver couldn’t wake him, so he took him to the police station. Later, he woke up in an immigration office. I am so sorry I couldn’t help you in time. We will see each other in Thailand then.
The post was shortly thereafter deleted, followed by another message from the same individual sharply criticizing those who mocked the situation.
Mockery and Scorn Online
Thai internet users were divided in their reactions. Many found the story hilariously amusing and flooded the post with sarcastic comments.
Others called for strict consequences for illegal work. The woman later strongly criticized the mockers, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
South Korea Tightens Controls on Illegal Workers
The incident occurs amidst a period of significantly intensified inspections for Thai arrivals. South Korea has recently imposed work restrictions on individuals from four specific provinces.
The affected provinces are Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham. Scrutiny is particularly high in the agriculture and fishing sectors, as many workers are reportedly leaving their employers for better wages elsewhere.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Appeals for Reason
Anutin Charnvirakul, the Thai Prime Minister, stated that such problems stem from individual misconduct. He urged Thai workers abroad to strictly adhere to local laws.
This is seen as the only way to prevent further restrictions. However, these words offer little immediate help to the man in the immigration office, who now faces imminent deportation.