Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has advised people celebrating Halloween to avoid severely crowded areas, to prevent repeat of the fatal crush in South Korea last year.

159 people were killed, most of them in their 20s and 30s, as they gathered in Itaewon, a popular nightlife district in Seoul for Halloween celebrations when the crowd crush occurred. A Thai woman, 27, was among those killed.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said the prime minister has expressed concern over Thais who intend to celebrate Halloween tomorrow night (Tuesday), as a large number of people are expected to go out to celebrate.

Chai suggested anyone going to enclosed areas should check the exits and not go alone. If going to crowded areas, one should be wary of pickpockets and should not consume too much alcohol, Chai said.

In an emergency, people can alert tourist police at 1155.

One of the places of most concern is Khaosan Road, which has an area similar to Itaewon in Seoul, Chai said.

Meanwhile, the Thai Embassy in Seoul has issued advice for Thais there to be careful when going into the crowded areas, the spokesperson said.

Seoul is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Thais.

If they feel unsafe, they should leave the place immediately. They can seek help from the embassy at +82 10-6747-0095 or +82 10-3099-2955, according to the Thai embassy.