Korean Tourist Visa Holders Arrested for Working as Hairdressers in Bangkok

South Korean
During the inspection, immigration police discover four Korean and one Myanmar national working at a hair salon on central Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, on Jan. 15, 2025.

BANGKOKImmigration police arrested four South Korean nationals and one Myanmar citizen for illegally working as hairstylists in Bangkok, as hairdressing is one of 40 protected occupations reserved for Thai nationals only.

Acting on a tip regarding foreign workers at a hair salon on central Sukhumvit Road, Immigration Division 1 officers conducted a raid on January 15. Upon entering the second floor of the reported building, officers discovered a busy salon with both Thai and foreign customers receiving haircuts and styling services, with more waiting in queue.

 

During the inspection, authorities identified four South Korean nationals working as hairstylists: Mr. Lee (25), Mr. Kim (30), Ms. Jiyoen (25), and Ms. Jihye (24), along with a 33-year-old Myanmar woman. Investigation revealed that all four South Korean suspects had entered Thailand using 90-day tourist visa exemptions.

Advertisement

The South Korean nationals were charged with “working without a work permit.” The Myanmar national, despite having a work permit, was charged with working outside her permitted rights, as hairdressing is a protected occupation for Thai citizens only. All suspects were detained and transferred to Klong Tan Police Station for further legal proceedings.

korean job2
Immigration police arrest four Korean and one Myanmar national at a Sukhumvit Road hair salon and transport them to Klong Tan Police Station for charging on Jan. 15, 2025.

Hairdressing falls under the Ministry of Labor’s declaration of restricted occupations prohibited for foreign nationals, which includes other protected professions such as tour guiding, street vending, and traditional Thai massage therapy.

Under Thai foreign employment law, working in protected occupations is strictly prohibited for foreigners. Violations carry fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 baht. Additionally, offenders will be blacklisted as prohibited persons under immigration law and face deportation from the kingdom.

Advertisement

_________

Related article:

40 Occupations in Thailand Restricted; Foreigner Hiring Prohibited