Phuket —
A photography team has come under fire after a viral video showed them rolling up the Thai national flag at a popular viewpoint in Phuket, prompting fierce backlash from locals and netizens alike.
The incident occurred at Black Rock Viewpoint in Rawai, where a crew was reportedly staging a photo shoot. In the now widely circulated clip, a woman—believed to be part of the production team—is seen wrapping the Thai flag around its pole, seemingly to keep it out of the frame.
Moments later, a local Thai man approaches the scene and unfurls the flag, allowing it to wave freely once again. His quiet act of defiance earned widespread praise online.
The footage ignited a storm of criticism across social media platforms. Comments ranged from patriotic outrage to calls for greater respect toward national symbols. Many users questioned the crew’s intentions and demanded accountability, while others praised the local man for his quiet but powerful gesture.
In Thailand, the national flag holds deep symbolic value, representing unity, sovereignty, and pride. Any perceived disrespect—intentional or not—can quickly escalate into public controversy. This incident shows the importance of cultural awareness, especially in public spaces and during creative productions.
As of now, the crew involved has not issued a public statement. Meanwhile, the video continues to circulate, serving as a reminder that even small actions can carry big meaning in the eyes of a community.
