Family Seeks Assistance to Repatriate Thai Worker Who Died in South Korea

On August 18, 2026, Khaosod Online reported that 34-year-old Piyawan, a resident of Kamphaeng Phet province, passed away under mysterious circumstances while working as a traditional massage therapist in South Korea. Her family, currently facing financial hardship, is unable to afford the approximately 300,000 baht required to repatriate her remains to Thailand for funeral rites.

Vinai Dechsri, the Chief of the Trai Trueng Subdistrict Administrative Organization, stated that he has coordinated with the office of the Deputy Prime Minister to facilitate the process. The Thai Embassy in South Korea has advised the family to grant power of attorney to a friend of the deceased currently in South Korea to handle the hospital release and shipping arrangements. While some local provincial agencies have been contacted for support, the family is actively seeking public donations to bridge the funding gap.

For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the significant financial and logistical challenges faced by Thai nationals working abroad when unexpected tragedies occur. While the Thai government is assisting with coordination, the financial burden of repatriation remains a primary obstacle for the family. The exact cause of death and the final timeline for the return of the remains are yet to be confirmed as the family continues to appeal for public assistance.