June 16, 2012 11:08

Lady Gaga criticised by Thailand authorities

Culture Ministry claim 'Born This Way' singer 'hurt the feelings of the Thai people'

Photo Gallery: Lady Gaga
Photo: PA

Lady Gaga's Born This Way Ball tour has attracted more controversy after the singer's stage antics were criticised by authorities in Thailand.

According to the Sun, the country's Culture Ministry have accused the 'Bad Romance' star of insulting "the Thai people" with her inappropriate use of the nation's flag during her live show in Bangkok last month (May 25).

Reports claim that the singer donned a traditional Thai headdress and a bikini during her performance and also sat on a motorbike with a Thai flag tied to it, prompting complaints from members of the public.

A statement from the Ministry claimed the act was "not appropriate and hurt the feelings of the Thai people", but Permanent Secretary Somchai Seanglai said that although a summary of the complaints had been given to the police, they would not be seeking legal action.

The row isn't the first time Gaga has found herself in hot water on her Born This Way Ball. The tour kicked off in controversial style in April after authorities in Seoul, South Korea implemented a strict adults only policy at her show and banned anyone under the age of 18 from attending . The age restriction was imposed after a ratings board deemed the performance unsuitable for children, following earlier protests from Christian groups claiming the singer was "obscene".

Last month (May 30), meanwhile, she was forced to cancel a show in Jakarta, Indonesia when she was refused a permit to perform in the city, as Islamic groups in the country had expressed opposition to her "vulgar" style.

Gaga is touring Europe as part of her Born This Way Ball tour and will now also play Manchester's Evening News Arena on September 11 and a one-off date in Ireland at Dublin's Aviva Stadium four days later. The Darkness will support on all dates.

Video: Lady Gaga Through The Years

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