South Korean tourists spark criticism for erupting Pattaya restaurant brawl

The fight broke out around 3:30 a.m. on July 11 at a restaurant specializing in Thai hotpot and grilled meat on Soi Phettrakul, The Pattaya News reported.

In video footage circulating on social media, the tourists were seen throwing ceramic plates and glass cups at each other. Despite attempts by others to intervene, the young men continued fighting.

Captain Pansarn Khlongsit from the Pattaya Police Station arrived at the scene shortly after receiving the report and detained four Korean nationals involved in the altercation.

Police said the four individuals were friends traveling together in Thailand. During their late-night meal, an argument escalated into a physical confrontation, Pattaya Mail reported.

Restaurant staff told the media that the chaos forced nearby diners to flee in fear of being struck by flying objects. Numerous plates, glasses, drinking cups, and decorative items were destroyed.

The restaurant owner demanded 100,000 baht (US$3,077) in compensation.

The four tourists have since agreed to pay for the damage.

Police are continuing to hold them for questioning.

They may face administrative fines before being released.

The incident has sparked backlash on social media, with many users criticizing the group's behavior as disrespectful and disruptive.