Jason Isaacs, known for his role in the Harry Potter movies, highlighted corruption in Thailand's fishing industry during filming for The White Lotus in Koh Samui. He urged visitors to support charities combating child slavery in the sex and fishing industries to leave the place better than they found it. Activists have long been working to address forced labor, human trafficking, and violence in Thailand's seafood industry, where overfishing has led to exploitation and abuses, with migrants making up a majority of the workforce.

Reports have shown that children in the industry are at a higher risk of workplace dangers, and celebrities like Tom Colicchio and Rick Moonen have called for action to address illegal fishing practices globally. While Thailand is a focal point, corruption in the fishing industry is a widespread issue, with workers facing exploitation in various countries. Through efforts like that of Thai activists Patima Tungpuchayakul and Tun Lin, who seek to free enslaved fishers and combat corruption, awareness and support for local charities can drive much-needed change in the industry.