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Community Chiang Mai Café Responds to “Human Zoo” Controversy
Picture and video courtesy of Khoasod. A well-known café in Chiang Mai has defended itself following criticism that it resembles a “human zoo”, after a photo went viral showing workers sorting tobacco leaves while customers enjoyed their drinks nearby. The controversy erupted after Dr Nick Suwadee Phanphanich, a former Thai Sang Thai Party parliamentary candidate and executive at Thonburi Hospital, posted an image of herself at Yen.CNX, a café in Chiang Mai. In the background, workers could be seen engaged in traditional tobacco-sorting, a scene which some online critics said created a sense of class disparity and likened to a “human zoo”. However, Dr Suwadee later clarified her intentions, expressing respect for community traditions that showcase diverse livelihoods. “I appreciate cafés that allow people to witness authentic lifestyles that still exist,” she wrote, likening the venue to other establishments such as tea plantations, farm cafés, and weaving centres. “I disagree with the term ‘human zoo’. It reflects shallow thinking and demeans the workers. They have honour and dignity, and we must respect their way of life,” she added. The owner of Yen.CNX, a woman who inherited the business from her family, said she was surprised by the backlash and explained that the café was never intended to exploit anyone. The building was originally her family’s tobacco-sorting factory, dating back to her grandfather’s time and later run by her father and uncle. “The café never intended to diminish the value of any occupation. On the contrary, we believe every profession deserves respect and dignity,” she said. She explained that the space was created to preserve and share the heritage of her family’s tobacco business. Designers were hired to maintain the original architecture, and exhibition rooms were added to educate visitors about the tobacco cultivation and processing history. During the tobacco season, from January to May, real tobacco sorting takes place on site, performed by skilled workers who have long been part of the family operation and are paid fairly for their work. “This café wasn’t created for entertainment,” she stressed. “It’s meant to be a place for learning and storytelling, always with respect for the dignity of every worker.” She also said she welcomed public feedback and would consider it for future improvements. Despite the online debate, reporters in Chiang Mai noted that the café remained busy on 25 April, with a steady stream of customers. The establishment, which has been open for over three years, continues the family’s traditional trade in a modern setting. One visitor, who had heard of the controversy just hours before her visit, said she came specifically to see the café for herself. “Having seen it with my own eyes, I feel differently. It’s like visiting a coffee farm or tea plantation, it’s about showing the process. I think the photo that caused the outrage may have been taken from a misleading angle,” she said. The debate continues to generate discussion online, highlighting broader societal questions around class, tradition, and representation in modern Thai spaces. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-27. ScreenRecording_04-26-2025 13-17-57_1.mp4 -
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Crime Passenger Catches Chinese Man Red-Handed Stealing on Bangkok-Phuket Flight
Such quality tourists these days. -
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Tipping
Believe it or not this sign is real, and was posted on the front door of a restaurant in California. I don't mind tipping but when somebody demands a 25% tip I literally run for the hills. -
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What is the purpose of life?
Same as last time this same question was posed, ....maybe.... -
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Tipping
And often even if you leave them a good tip they don't show much in the way of appreciation. I often get more appreciation for a 20 baht tip in Thailand that I do for $20 tip in the US. -
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Trump says he’s negotiated 200 trade deals — but won’t say with whom
i used to think that Harris just liked to hear her voice and would say a bunch of nonsense when she was asked about anything - but Trump is the champion at using a million words to say absolutely nothing. But I guess his billionaire buddies like that.
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