South Korean tourist’s dramatic spectacle in Pattaya condo
A 41 year old South Korean tourist, caused quite a stir on a serene Sunday evening, November 26, in Pattaya. The man was seen pacing around the balcony of an upscale condominium situated in Soi Buakhao in Central Pattaya. He threatened to end his life by jumping off the 8th floor, also adding an unusual twist by scattering Thai banknotes worth over 100,000 baht off his balcony.
The condominium, located in the Banglamung district of Chon Buri province, was quickly surrounded by police officers from Pattaya Police Station and rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. Responding to the call at 4pm, they arrived to find the agitated tourist, whose identity has been kept confidential, shouting threats and resisting rescue efforts.
The defiant tourist continued this unsettling spectacle for about an hour, during which he threw a stack of Thai banknotes off the balcony. The scattered banknotes were later estimated to be roughly worth 100,000 baht, reported The Pattaya News. Eventually, the man retreated into his room, allowing the rescue workers to inflate an air cushion below the balcony, preparing for the worst-case scenario.
The police, in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, brought in a Korean interpreter. The soothing words and calm demeanour of the interpreter seemed to have a positive effect. The man opened his door, allowing the police officers to escort him safely to the ground floor.
Once on the ground, the man revealed his troubled state to the Pattaya police. He stated that he was suffering from heart disease and had recently arrived in Pattaya, about a month ago.
The last few days had been particularly stressful for him. He was dealing with a strained relationship with his Thai girlfriend, who, according to him, had deceived him. She took his money under the pretext of opening a business, only to abandon him later.
Money lender
Adding to his woes, a friend from Korea, whom he had lent money, verbally abused him when he asked for repayment. This accumulation of stress and frustration led to his emotional outbursts.
After this revelation, the police arranged for him to be taken to a hospital for a medical check-up. They also reached out to his family in South Korea to inform them of the situation.
As an important note, anyone experiencing feelings of depression or distress is encouraged to seek help. Samaritans of Thailand offer a wealth of resources and a helpful hand to those in need.
