A social media post criticizing a passenger’s choice of footwear on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has sparked a debate online. The discussion centers around whether wearing flip-flops is appropriate in Bangkok, particularly in the presence of international visitors. Some users perceive it as detrimental to the nation's image, while others defend personal freedom in a hot climate.

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The original post, shared by a Thai netizen, expressed embarrassment over the casual footwear seen on public transport, urging others to weigh in, and suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers. This sparked reactions from many, defending the choice as a matter of personal comfort and practicality, especially given Thailand’s tropical weather.

Supporters of wearing flip-flops highlighted the discomfort of closed shoes in a hot environment, emphasizing cultural differences in dress codes. Comparisons were drawn to countries like Australia, where casual footwear on public transport is common and generally accepted without judgment.

The broader debate touches on themes of personal freedom, cultural etiquette, and the expectations placed on locals versus tourists. It also raises questions about societal norms in urban Thailand and how they align with modern, diverse cultural perspectives.

The conversation underscores ongoing discussions about personal choices versus societal expectations in public spaces. As debates continue, it reflects a broader issue of how traditional norms adapt in a rapidly changing society.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 30 Mar 2026

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It’s hard to take this “embarrassment” claim seriously.

Usually, the BTS is so packed that you’re lucky if you can even see your own shoes, let alone judge anyone else’s.

I'd suggest that wearing Flip-Flops on the BTS is one of the least things detrimental to the nation's image!

what a nonsense... people can wear as they like, not everything must be controlled. And indeed in a tropical climate it is nice to wear flipflops or something instead of sneakers. Let the people do as they like and don't start to control everything and everybody

Most of the Thais I've known over the years attach great importance to appearances.

Flip-flops are definitely "Lo-so" in their estimation.

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers

Love that. Sneakers as formal footwear.

I have been to many weddings, funerals etc in the regions, and to see people dress up in their finest without a pair of proper shoes let alone formal ones. Maybe the Bangkok people are more formal than the bush but the complainer has his hand in the wrong spot.

When you wear flip flops, it is so easy to remove them at shops or houses which request you to do so. There are different types/qualities of them available from Bht 20 up to Bht 1000.

14 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

what a nonsense... people can wear as they like, not everything must be controlled. And indeed in a tropical climate it is nice to wear flipflops or something instead of sneakers. Let the people do as they like and don't start to control everything and everybody

People can do as they like, no one is starting to control individual's choice of footwear, it's just an extremely daft social media post from an extremely daft person.

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

A social media post criticizing a passenger’s choice of footwear on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has sparked a debate online. The discussion centers around whether wearing flip-flops is appropriate in Bangkok, particularly in the presence of international visitors. Some users perceive it as detrimental to the nation's image, while others defend personal freedom in a hot climate.

Get today's headlines by email

The original post, shared by a Thai netizen, expressed embarrassment over the casual footwear seen on public transport, urging others to weigh in, and suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers. This sparked reactions from many, defending the choice as a matter of personal comfort and practicality, especially given Thailand’s tropical weather.

Supporters of wearing flip-flops highlighted the discomfort of closed shoes in a hot environment, emphasizing cultural differences in dress codes. Comparisons were drawn to countries like Australia, where casual footwear on public transport is common and generally accepted without judgment.

The broader debate touches on themes of personal freedom, cultural etiquette, and the expectations placed on locals versus tourists. It also raises questions about societal norms in urban Thailand and how they align with modern, diverse cultural perspectives.

The conversation underscores ongoing discussions about personal choices versus societal expectations in public spaces. As debates continue, it reflects a broader issue of how traditional norms adapt in a rapidly changing society.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 30 Mar 2026

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16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

A social media post criticizing a passenger’s choice of footwear on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has sparked a debate online. The discussion centers around whether wearing flip-flops is appropriate in Bangkok, particularly in the presence of international visitors. Some users perceive it as detrimental to the nation's image, while others defend personal freedom in a hot climate.

Get today's headlines by email

The original post, shared by a Thai netizen, expressed embarrassment over the casual footwear seen on public transport, urging others to weigh in, and suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers. This sparked reactions from many, defending the choice as a matter of personal comfort and practicality, especially given Thailand’s tropical weather.

Supporters of wearing flip-flops highlighted the discomfort of closed shoes in a hot environment, emphasizing cultural differences in dress codes. Comparisons were drawn to countries like Australia, where casual footwear on public transport is common and generally accepted without judgment.

The broader debate touches on themes of personal freedom, cultural etiquette, and the expectations placed on locals versus tourists. It also raises questions about societal norms in urban Thailand and how they align with modern, diverse cultural perspectives.

The conversation underscores ongoing discussions about personal choices versus societal expectations in public spaces. As debates continue, it reflects a broader issue of how traditional norms adapt in a rapidly changing society.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 30 Mar 2026

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16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

A social media post criticizing a passenger’s choice of footwear on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has sparked a debate online. The discussion centers around whether wearing flip-flops is appropriate in Bangkok, particularly in the presence of international visitors. Some users perceive it as detrimental to the nation's image, while others defend personal freedom in a hot climate.

Get today's headlines by email

The original post, shared by a Thai netizen, expressed embarrassment over the casual footwear seen on public transport, urging others to weigh in, and suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers. This sparked reactions from many, defending the choice as a matter of personal comfort and practicality, especially given Thailand’s tropical weather.

Supporters of wearing flip-flops highlighted the discomfort of closed shoes in a hot environment, emphasizing cultural differences in dress codes. Comparisons were drawn to countries like Australia, where casual footwear on public transport is common and generally accepted without judgment.

The broader debate touches on themes of personal freedom, cultural etiquette, and the expectations placed on locals versus tourists. It also raises questions about societal norms in urban Thailand and how they align with modern, diverse cultural perspectives.

The conversation underscores ongoing discussions about personal choices versus societal expectations in public spaces. As debates continue, it reflects a broader issue of how traditional norms adapt in a rapidly changing society.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 30 Mar 2026

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Someone trying to get a promotion from their boss by flouting nonsensical social media posts to show how much they care?

This "professionalism" disease seems to be spreading from "the west" again.

Who gives a flying **CK what a twattoker has to say

Personally I wear sandals when out and about whether here in Surin or in BKK (unless it's a solemn occasion like 90-day report at Surin Immigration or - as next week in Bangers - at Oz Embassy for p/p renewal when I wear sneakers & sox).

In Australia of course 'flipflops' are called 'thongs', which creates a different kind of embarrassment in more northerly parts.

Misread this - thought the 'outraged' social media post was because the guy was wearing BTS footwear - merch from that Korean band. Oops.

16 hours ago, Jim Waldron said:

It’s hard to take this “embarrassment” claim seriously.

Usually, the BTS is so packed that you’re lucky if you can even see your own shoes, let alone judge anyone else’s.

I'd suggest that wearing Flip-Flops on the BTS is one of the least things detrimental to the nation's image!

Why doyu get the feeling that some people have too much time on their hands.

Somebody needs a new hobby.

Probably some wildly popular influencer who is looking for more clicks. Move along people. Nothing to see here.

16 hours ago, JingerBen said:

Most of the Thais I've known over the years attach great importance to appearances.

Flip-flops are definitely "Lo-so" in their estimation.

Havaianas are flip flops and they are certainly not Lo-So. If it’s sold in ICON Siam, I guess it’s alright for public transit.

Usually it's the 'international visitors' that I see wearing flip-flops on the subway.

The only times I wore shoes was when on my motorcycle or when I used to work. Flip-flops are the attire of the day nowadays.

1 minute ago, newnative said:

Usually it's the 'international visitors' that I see wearing flip-flops on the subway.

Hence the push for dress-codes on sky-trains.

17 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

A social media post criticizing a passenger’s choice of footwear on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has sparked a debate online. The discussion centers around whether wearing flip-flops is appropriate in Bangkok, particularly in the presence of international visitors. Some users perceive it as detrimental to the nation's image, while others defend personal freedom in a hot climate.

Get today's headlines by email

The original post, shared by a Thai netizen, expressed embarrassment over the casual footwear seen on public transport, urging others to weigh in, and suggesting more formal footwear like sneakers. This sparked reactions from many, defending the choice as a matter of personal comfort and practicality, especially given Thailand’s tropical weather.

Supporters of wearing flip-flops highlighted the discomfort of closed shoes in a hot environment, emphasizing cultural differences in dress codes. Comparisons were drawn to countries like Australia, where casual footwear on public transport is common and generally accepted without judgment.

The broader debate touches on themes of personal freedom, cultural etiquette, and the expectations placed on locals versus tourists. It also raises questions about societal norms in urban Thailand and how they align with modern, diverse cultural perspectives.

The conversation underscores ongoing discussions about personal choices versus societal expectations in public spaces. As debates continue, it reflects a broader issue of how traditional norms adapt in a rapidly changing society.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 30 Mar 2026

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with all the trouble in the world these days this seems a ridiculous discussion: flip flops in Skytrain? come on, these are luxury-problems, not real problems!

16 hours ago, JingerBen said:

Most of the Thais I've known over the years attach great importance to appearances.

Flip-flops are definitely "Lo-so" in their estimation.

Then there is a whole lot of low so outside of Bangkok🤣

Flip flops are unsafe footwear in many circumstances. Have a look at the aftermath of large evacuations when there is a fire or an incident on public transit. Lots of abandoned or lost sandals and flip flops. If you don't mind walking barefoot over shards of glass, or burning items or through raw sewage, go for it. Bangkok has all sorts of sticky stinky liquids and substances on its streets. If you are okay walking through it with exposed flesh, enjoy.

Wearing, Thongs, as they are called in Oz, is the most natural thing in a hot climate, to have on your feet.

Or, wear socks & sneakers, and risk smelly feet, and have people block their noses as the pass you !!

Of course, you do risk having your feet trodden on occasionally, but that's a small price to pay for the freedom of cool, air refreshed feet.

33 minutes ago, thailand49 said:

Then there is a whole lot of low so outside of Bangkok🤣

You said it, bro.

I totally agree that one should be able to wear any footwear they so desire, but it's difficult for me to understand why such little attention is paid to footwear in Thailand. There's nothing worse than to see a lovely Thai lady all dressed up in casual, semi or even formal attire and wearing ugly dirty flip-flops. Nice, clean and stylish shoes are a very important part of dress and image. First impressions are extremely important, and in my mind, the condition of one's shoes says a whole lot about a person. Back in my professional days in management, if I were to interview a prospective employee, and their shoes were scuffed, dirty and unpolished, they would be out the door lickety-split.

As a sidenote, I'm nearing 16 years in Thailand, and I have yet to see a woman with a nice pedicure with toenail polish. There's nothing that's more of a turnoff than to see a girl wearing two-week-old nail polish that is chipped, and the nails have grown out and left that gap in the polish. I mean....gosh....how long does it take to bend down and put a fresh coat of polish on those bad boys? It's just pure laziness and bad personal hygiene and a pretty good indication that the private parts are also lacking in proper hygiene.

2 hours ago, Watawattana said:

Misread this - thought the 'outraged' social media post was because the guy was wearing BTS footwear - merch from that Korean band. Oops.

Haha I thought they were upset about BTS bringing out their own line of footwear

Last year I was on the BTS after several beers in Sukhumvit . I was minding my own business when the young Thai bloke standing next to me said to his girlfriend in Thai 'Look at how he is standing' . Well I had had a beer or 3 so was holding on to the overhead strap for dear life. I ignored his comment.

Then he said to his girlfriend 'look at is shoes' and then laughed.

When I said to him in Thai 'These shoes are good shoes and were expensive ,I paid ฿40 for them at the market' He then became very embarrased and said he was talking about his girlfriends shoes. They got off at the next stop !

1 hour ago, pl8lad said:

freedom of cool, air refreshed feet

Where I digress are filthy blackened unwashed feet and uncut toe nails.

18 hours ago, JingerBen said:

Most of the Thais I've known over the years attach great importance to appearances.

Flip-flops are definitely "Lo-so" in their estimation.

I agree 100%.

However, what they consider ree-up-roy out and about is much more formal than what is acceptable in and around home.

I've found that it makes sense to conform to their values - to a certain extent at least.

At our house and around our neighborhood I prefer shorts and flip-flops. When going out it doesn't bother me to spruce up a little.

But hey, to each his own.

1 hour ago, fittobethaied said:

I totally agree that one should be able to wear any footwear they so desire, but it's difficult for me to understand why such little attention is paid to footwear in Thailand. There's nothing worse than to see a lovely Thai lady all dressed up in casual, semi or even formal attire and wearing ugly dirty flip-flops. Nice, clean and stylish shoes are a very important part of dress and image. First impressions are extremely important, and in my mind, the condition of one's shoes says a whole lot about a person. Back in my professional days in management, if I were to interview a prospective employee, and their shoes were scuffed, dirty and unpolished, they would be out the door lickety-split.

As a sidenote, I'm nearing 16 years in Thailand, and I have yet to see a woman with a nice pedicure with toenail polish. There's nothing that's more of a turnoff than to see a girl wearing two-week-old nail polish that is chipped, and the nails have grown out and left that gap in the polish. I mean....gosh....how long does it take to bend down and put a fresh coat of polish on those bad boys? It's just pure laziness and bad personal hygiene and a pretty good indication that the private parts are also lacking in proper hygiene.

I think the instructions at Thai Immigration say to remove the broomstick when you enter Thailand. Foot-fetishism is just weird!

When I taught in uni, there were shelves outside each classroom for shoes. That's wear I left my thongs...and lectured barefoot.

1. If your self-image depends upon how others see you, the problem isn't in your shoes.

2. Flip-flops are the signature footwear of S.E. Asia.

Except for motorcycle riding, I haven't worn closed leather footwear in 25 years. Otherwise, it's Teva sandals for everyday wear. (I've never met an Immigration officer who looks at my feet.)

What an i diot writing this !

Get a life!