GMMTV Addresses Costume Controversy in 'Scarlet Heart Thailand'
Production company GMMTV has issued a formal statement clarifying the inspiration behind costumes in the upcoming series 'Scarlet Heart Thailand' following online criticism.
On October 23, 2026, the production company GMMTV released an official statement regarding the series 'Scarlet Heart Thailand: Miracle Across Time.' This follows online criticism from some viewers in Myanmar, who noted similarities between the show's costumes and traditional Burmese royal attire, leading to calls for an explanation.
In its statement, GMMTV clarified that the series features a fictional city called 'Alawi.' The production team explained that the artistic elements, including costumes and set designs, were inspired by a diverse range of cultural influences, specifically citing Lanna traditions, various Tai ethnic groups, and Chinese aesthetics. The company emphasized that there was no intention to claim these designs as exclusively Thai, noting that they aimed to create a unique visual identity for the fictional setting.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding cultural representation in media within Southeast Asia. While the production company has addressed the concerns by explaining their creative process, the situation serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural nuance in regional entertainment. As of now, it remains to be seen how the audience will respond to these clarifications as the series continues its production. No further official updates regarding changes to the costume design have been announced by the studio.
