Prime Minister Anutin said the government cannot assist those who break the law following South Korea's ban on workers from four Isan provinces. However, if workers face harassment, the government is ready to protect them. He noted that this is a different matter from Thai people facing difficulties traveling and stressed that Thailand remains an important trade partner of South Korea.
13 May 2026 GMT+7 Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, commented on the case where South Korea announced a blacklist (ban) on Thai workers from four northeastern provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—prohibiting the import of seasonal agricultural and fishing labor throughout 2026. He said it is important to understand that this issue has not yet been officially reported. If workers enter illegally, they must be banned, just as those who illegally enter and work in Thailand are banned.
He cited inspections on Koh Phangan Island, Surat Thani Province, where illegal activities were found: accommodations and hotels without licenses and illegal villas. Even if they claim to invest money in Thailand, that alone is not enough because of the law violations. Similarly, if we work abroad and break their laws, they have the right to ban us. Therefore, we must not break the law.
When asked how the government would address this issue, Anutin responded, “No, we cannot help because you broke the law yourself. But if you follow the law and are harassed, the government will fully protect you.”
The reporter further asked, whether South Korea's ban would affect Thai tourists. Anutin quoted a Thai proverb, “One rotten fish spoils the whole basket,” emphasizing the need for responsibility. He said he believes the labor issue is separate from tourism. “Don’t listen to rumors that Thai tourists will find it harder to visit South Korea. South Korea also wants tourism revenue from Thai visitors, who spend on shopping and beauty services. We are an important trade partner. If there are any issues, I will explain to the Korean government, as we know each other well.”