A South Korean tourist reported an assault to Pattaya police in the early hours of May 30th, claiming he was kicked in the face twice by an exotic animal exhibitor, resulting in the loss of three teeth.
The incident occurred at the Runway Market on Pattaya Second Road. The victim, 38-year-old Munsu Park, along with his older brother and girlfriend, went to the Pattaya Police Station around 2:06 AM to report the assault by the Thai owner of an exotic animal show.
Ms. May, the victim’s girlfriend, stated that Mr. Park was visiting Pattaya for the first time. While walking through the Runway Market, they noticed the exotic animal show. Mr. Park stopped to watch and take pictures with his phone. The show’s owner became upset about the photos and demanded Mr. Park stop. An argument ensued, and Mr. Park allegedly threw a 100 baht note at the owner, which Ms. May said further enraged him. The owner threw the money on the ground and reportedly kicked Mr. Park in the face twice. Mr. Park fell, suffering three broken teeth, two loose teeth, and significant bleeding. The trio then decided to file a complaint against the exhibitor.
The animal show owner, whose name was not disclosed by police, claimed he was angered by the tourist throwing money at him, perceiving it as disrespectful, particularly since Thai currency bears the image of His Royal Majesty The King. In a fit of anger, he kicked the tourist but now feels remorseful and is willing to face the legal consequences.
The incident is under investigation. It remains unclear if the suspect has offered compensation to the Korean tourist or if there will be any action taken to verify the exhibitor’s permits and licenses for displaying the animals.
