A recently unveiled statue in Hua Hin has been vandalised, prompting widespread frustration among locals and renewed calls for authorities to take action against graffiti in the town.
The “Man Fighting Shark” statue, located near Chao Mae Tubtim Shrine at the entrance to Hua Hin Beach, was found defaced with graffiti and physical damage. The vandal broke off the statue’s teeth and drew the symbol of an eye on it, tarnishing what was meant to be a new landmark for the town.
The incident has sparked strong reactions from residents, with many identifying the suspect as a local graffiti artist whose work, often referred to as the “Hua Hin eye,” can be seen across the town. The artist’s graffiti has divided public opinion—some see it as adding character, while others view it as an eyesore that has spread too widely. The defacement of the statue, however, appears to have been a turning point for many.
Following the vandalism, a member of the public posted in the Citizens of Hua Hin Facebook group, expressing frustration:
“How can someone do this? The statue was just completed, and now this? It took time and money to create as a new landmark, and it’s been ruined. If anyone has evidence of this person defacing public spaces, please report it.”
Other social media users have since shared images and information about the suspect, pointing out that they have repeatedly defaced various locations in Hua Hin. Some residents have now called for legal action to prevent further vandalism.
The new “Man Fighting Shark” statue, standing 1.90 metres tall, was built at a cost of 359,000 baht as a modern recreation of the original, nearly 70-year-old sculpture that had deteriorated over time. It was intended to serve as a check-in point for visitors and a symbol of Hua Hin’s coastal heritage.
Local authorities have yet to release a formal statement regarding the incident. However, with mounting pressure from residents, many expect action to be taken against those responsible.
