Shirt Storm: Bangkok Shop Owner Defends Right to Sell Putin and Hitler Shirts
Bangkok, Thailand – A Bangkok second-hand clothing store owner, Chonticha Nawathong, has sparked controversy after defending her right to sell shirts featuring Russian President Vladimir Putin and former German leader Adolf Hitler.
Foreign Tourists Demand Removal
Chonticha, who runs a shop at the Bang Sue Junction building near Chatuchak Weekend Market, claimed she had received repeated requests from foreign tourists to stop selling the controversial shirts. She took to social media to criticize their behavior, arguing that they had no right to interfere with her business.
“I am not politically biased! My shop is like a museum that collects rare shirts, including ones featuring world leaders.”
She further defended her stance, stating:
“Here in Thailand, I can sell any shirts I want. If you hate him, you can simply buy these clothes and throw them away.”
Confrontation with Ukrainian Tourist
In a heated altercation caught on video, Chonticha and her boyfriend were seen arguing with a Ukrainian man who confronted them over the shirts. The argument nearly turned physical, with the couple pushing the man out of their store.
Chonticha also revealed that other vendors faced similar complaints, with one being asked to remove a shirt featuring a Nazi symbol.
A Clash of Perspectives
The incident has sparked a debate over freedom of commerce vs. historical sensitivity, as some argue the sale of such items is offensive, while others believe business owners should have the right to sell what they choose.
For now, Chonticha remains defiant, insisting that foreigners should respect Thai business owners’ rights.
