Two South Koreans, aged 50 and 41, were arrested in Chiang Mai for overstaying their visas and working illegally as tour guides. Identified only as Mr Han and Mr Kim, they were apprehended on a road in Chiang Mai City following a tip-off from locals.

 

The arrests were made by the Royal Thai Immigration Bureau, which had been alerted that the men were offering unauthorised tour services. Upon questioning, both admitted to charging between 10,000 and 15,000 Baht for their bespoke tour services. They had been operating via social media for approximately two months.

 

Immigration officers charged them with overstaying their visas and working without the required permits. In Thailand, the tour guide profession is protected, meaning foreigners cannot obtain work permits or visas for this role.

 

South Korean authorities had also been notified and checked the men’s history. They discovered that Mr Han and Mr Kim were allegedly involved in a luxury car Ponzi scam in South Korea, affecting over 60 victims with losses totalling over 109 million Baht.

 

The two men will face legal consequences in Thailand before being deported to South Korea to answer for their alleged crimes. The specific duration of their visa overstay was not disclosed by Thai officials.

 

This case highlights ongoing issues with illegal workers in Thailand's tourism sector. Authorities continue to urge citizens to report suspicious activity to help maintain control over lawful employment and tourism practices within the country.

 

Picture courtesy:Siam Rath

 

-- 2024-06-29

 

Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Should send them to North Korea! 

And how many Thais have stepped up into their place as tour guides that speak South Korean fluently?

8 hours ago, webfact said:

The two men will face legal consequences in Thailand before being deported to South Korea to answer for their alleged crimes.

Fines for the privilege of coming to Thailand, then go home.