A screenshot of Kanchanaburi FC coach Park Hang-seo (C) and his assistant Roh Yeong-su (L) reacting after receiving racial slurs from Pattaya United fans after a Thai League match on Nov. 1, 2026.

The incident occurred after the match at Nong Prue Stadium on Sunday evening ended in a 2-2 draw. A group of foreign supporters of the home side, Pattaya United, then targeted members of the visiting team with racial slurs.

Forward John Baggio was called a "monkey" and a "dwarf." Head coach Park Hang-seo and his coaching staff were taunted with the term "kimchi man," a slur towards Koreans, SBS reported.

Coach Park, assistant Roh Yeong-su and Baggio reacted with anger to the provocation. At one point, they used explicit language and challenged these supporters to confront them on the pitch.

The situation grew so tense that Kanchanaburi president Prawat Kitthammakunnit had to intervene. He quickly signaled for the team to head to the dressing room to prevent things from spiraling out of control.

News of the incident spread rapidly throughout the Thai football community.

On Monday, FAT president Madam Pang stated that this was a serious matter. She ordered the league organizers to gather evidence and begin the formal disciplinary process.

"The association reaffirms its stance against all forms of racism in football, whether on the pitch or on social media," the FAT stated. "Such behavior undermines the spirit of sportsmanship and has no place in football. We call on all stakeholders to join the campaign against racism, with the goal of bringing positive change and raising the standards of Thai football."

FAT president Madam Pang. Photo by Facebook/Madam Pang

According to the FAT's disciplinary and conduct regulations, any fan who uses vulgar, mocking, insulting or demeaning language, or engages in acts of racial or ethnic discrimination at a match venue, faces severe penalties.

The fine can range from 10,000 to 30,000 baht (US$296 to 889). If such acts are committed by a group, the fine increases to between 20,000 and 40,000 baht. If the behavior is supported by the use of sound-amplification equipment or media broadcast, the fine rises to between 30,000 and 50,000 baht.

In addition to the FAT, the Thai League organizers, Kanchanaburi, and Pattaya have also publicly condemned the acts of racism. DJ Sports, the agency representing Park, issued a statement regarding the behavior.

"We call on all football fans to say NO to racism," the statement reads. "We also urge Thai League and the relevant football authorities to thoroughly investigate the reported incidents, take appropriate action in accordance with the regulations, and strengthen measures to protect coaches, players, and all football personnel from discrimination and abuse.

"Every coach and player deserves to work and compete in an environment where they are treated with dignity and respect."