BANGKOK — Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has ordered a fact-finding investigation after the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok called on Thai authorities to examine an incident in which a Chinese national was allegedly subjected to excessive force by a security guard at a book event.
Speaking on Tuesday, Sihasak said authorities would first establish the facts before taking any further action.
“We have ordered an investigation to determine exactly what happened. Incidents like this can occur,” he said.
His remarks came a day after the Chinese Embassy urged Thai authorities to promptly investigate the case, which stemmed from an altercation at the International Novel Festival 2026 in Bangkok.
When asked about the large number of Thai social media users criticizing the Chinese Embassy’s Facebook page following its statement, Sihasak said the embassy had the right to issue a public explanation.
“We understand people’s feelings, but it is better to establish the facts and ensure fairness for all parties,” he said.
Asked whether Thailand would coordinate with the Chinese Embassy over the matter, Sihasak said discussions should wait until the investigation is complete.
“Let’s establish the facts first. Once the investigation is finished, we can discuss the matter. We must ensure fairness for all sides,” he said.
The controversy stems from an altercation during the International Novel Festival 2026, where a Chinese attendee was forcibly removed from a reserved seating area by an event security staff member. The incident sparked heated debate online in Thailand and China.
Organizer GMMTV later acknowledged that excessive force had been used by an outsourced security worker, apologized for the incident, and suspended the staff member pending the outcome of an investigation. The company also denied online claims that it had filed legal action against the Chinese attendee.