Thai tourists apologise for trespassing in Yellowstone Park
Three Thai tourists who walked on a fragile thermal area in Yellowstone National Park in the United States, apologised on Thursday for their actions which they said tarnished Thailand’s reputation.
The apparent trespass was recorded by a non-Thai who posted the video clip online.
Photos of members of the group along with data from their social media accounts was later posted online, accompanied by threats of a “witch-hunt”.
The video clip went viral with most people ridiculing and attacking the Thai tourists, who apparently ventured into an off-limits area of the park unknowingly.
The original video shows a warning sign saying the area was dangerous, but the sign was small and poorly displayed.
In a video posted online, Nukool Moolchot, who was among the Thai tourists, said he represented all Thais in the group in apologising to everyone because he felt sorry every time he thought about the incident.
“Our acts were done without prudence and wisdom and have resulted in negative images for the country. I take all the blame and would not excuse myself from the blame,” Nukool said.
In a separate video, two women – identified as Anna and Jenny – said they wanted to apologise to all Thais. They said they felt guilty and upset as they had no intention to tarnish the country’s image.
Administrators of a Facebook fanpage; Social Hunter1, who posted the controversial video clip originally, said they would not pursue the matter after the apology.