16-1-2024 (VIENTIANE) A viral video depicting a Chinese man seemingly purchasing a Laotian woman for the purpose of weighing her and offering a paltry sum in exchange has ignited a fierce online debate. The footage, capturing a shocking event in rural Laos, reveals individuals being asked to stand on a scale to determine their weight, with the Chinese man allegedly offering a mere 300,000 kip, approximately 500 baht, for one Laotian woman.
The inappropriate nature of the incident has sparked widespread outrage and criticism, particularly within the Laotian community. Additional information from online sources suggests that such transactions involving Laotian women are not uncommon and are often used for various purposes, including general work, live streaming on platforms like VK, and potential involvement in human trafficking.
While the legality of such transactions may vary in different countries, the nature of the video and the apparent underage status of some Laotian women have fueled condemnation and opposition from various quarters. Some Laotian voices online express concern over the devaluation of the dignity and worth of the women involved in the video, emphasizing that regardless of the legalities, such actions should not be tolerated.