FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO, JAPAN – A Thai YouTuber’s half-naked dance on a parked car near Mount Fuji triggered a storm of criticism in Japan and fierce backlash in Thailand.
Provocative stunt at iconic Fuji-Lawson
The incident took place in front of the Lawson convenience store in Fujikawaguchiko, a spot famed for its direct view of Mount Fuji. Jack Papho climbed onto a parked car, took off his shirt and performed an energetic dance while being filmed. The video spread rapidly on social media and, within three hours, drew more than 12,000 angry comments.
Japanese media condemn “shame for Thailand”
Japanese outlets highlighted the nationality of the YouTuber and criticized the stunt. According to reports, headlines read that a YouTuber from Thailand dancing on a car was “a shame for Thailand.” The reaction tapped into wider concerns in a society that placed strong emphasis on politeness and public order.
Mass tourism tensions around Mount Fuji
Residents around Mount Fuji had already complained about dangerous mass tourism. Visitors were accused of leaving rubbish, crossing roads illegally and disturbing locals. The YouTuber’s action intensified frustration and was seen as confirming negative stereotypes about foreign tourists.
Backlash explodes in Thailand
In Thailand, the online backlash escalated after Jack Papho initially showed little remorse and responded to criticism with confrontational remarks about nationalities. Influencers such as JapanSalaryman and Pigkaploy sharply condemned his behaviour and warned of consequences for the image of Thai travellers. Calls became increasingly extreme, with one Facebook user formally requesting the revocation of Jack Papho’s passport at a consular office.
Government acknowledges damage to Thailand’s image
Even the Thai government intervened. Tourism Minister Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn stated:
“There will be an impact on the image.”
said Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Tourism Minister.
He noted that such actions could not simply be banned because they fell under personal rights. However, the minister urged all Thai citizens to act responsibly when abroad.
National artist denounces “tasteless and primitive” act
Thai National Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat also publicly criticized the YouTuber. He railed against what he called the “tasteless and primitive” behaviour, saying it embarrassed Thailand internationally. His comments added cultural weight to the domestic criticism of the incident.
YouTuber refuses to delete video
Despite the wave of condemnation, Jack Papho showed little sign of repentance and refused to remove the clip. He argued that he wanted to
“take responsibility, not run away from the problem.”
said Jack Papho, YouTuber.
His partner publicly distanced herself, saying she had tried several times to stop him. Both asked that their child be left out of the ongoing online storm.
Entry ban demands grow louder
Observers in both countries noted that the reputational damage had already been done. Many critics now called for a permanent entry ban to Japan for the YouTuber. The affair had become a diplomatic embarrassment for Thailand, raising questions about social media behaviour and its impact on national image.