Thai “Karen” Goes Viral For Exercising Mask-Free In Pattaya, Apologises For Drama Caused

Thai woman runs without a mask 


2020 saw the rise of “Karens” during Covid-19. Thailand was not exempt from the trend – in fact, we even have our own term for entitled aunties, Manut Pa

Manut Pa translates to an “embodiment of an older auntie”, used to describe Thai ladies whose notoriously angry and entitled attitudes seem to take centre stage in all situations. 

One example is this Manut Pa in Pattaya, who went viral for exercising along a beach in Pattaya without a mask. 

Let’s dig a little deeper into the details of this case.

More dramatic happenings on the internet: 


Auntie spotted mask-free at Pattaya beach


On 24th May 2021, the aunty was seen jogging along Pattaya beach without a mask, where a local authority stepped into her activity. The authority figure advised her to practise proper Covid-19 safety measures by wearing a mask.  In true “Karen” fashion, she refused. 


Image credit: Line Today via Komchaluek

The Manut Pa asserted that the beach was mostly empty, spacious, and not crowded, so she didn’t see the need to wear a mask. 

Of course, netizens weren’t going to stand for this. Her behaviour was posted on a Facebook page, โหลกแดง Back To School.


Apologises for the drama caused online


Soon enough, the post went viral. It was then that the auntie realised that her actions were not socially acceptable.

She then decided to apologise to the authorities via a post on her personal Facebook account.


Image credit: โหลกแดง Back To School

Translation: I went out exercising along the beach in Pattaya with a mask. I thought the breeze was lovely, and wanted more of it so I took it off…

…I’m usually not stubborn, and I always consider myself open to other people’s opinions. This time, I was stubborn and I apologise to the authorities.

Despite the apology, netizens still find her behaviour unacceptable.

Screenshot: โหลกแดง Back To School

Translation: Did she wake up already?

Screenshot: โหลกแดง Back To School

Translation: She took all of the air.

Screenshot: โหลกแดง Back To School

Translation: She still hasn’t learnt anything.


Make conscientious decisions during a pandemic 


We always have to remember that our actions have consequences and may impact others.

The case involving this Manut Pa or Karen is a clear example of a person’s actions resulting in unnecessary drama and anxiety regarding public safety.

Let’s hope that she’s learnt her lesson from this incident and that it will be resolved amicably soon.

How would you have handled the situation? Would you have gotten involved with a Manut Pa? Let us know in the comments.


Cover images adapted from: Localiiz (Left), กล้วยทอด คุณไก่ (Right)

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