GMMTV has stated that Myanmar’s cultural heritage is among the important sources of inspiration for the controversial “Scarlet Heart Thailand” series.

The Thai adaptation of the popular “Scarlet Heart” series, which achieved success in China and South Korea, is scheduled to premiere on November 4.

The controversy began after the release of the series’ latest trailer and promotional images, which featured scenes of performers wearing costumes resembling those of the late Konbaung period and performing an oil lamp dance.

Amid the backlash, GMMTV, the television company behind the series, issued a statement.

GMMTV said Myanmar’s arts and cultural heritage was one of the important sources of inspiration for the series and that it valued and respected them. The company added that the cultural elements featured in the series were not intended to represent Thai culture alone.

The company said its production team had researched costume designs, artistic elements and cultural references to ensure they were consistent with the storyline and the characters’ personalities.

The company also offered a sincere apology for the concerns and dissatisfaction over the portrayal of cultural elements in the series, saying it took the concerns seriously and was working to ensure that each culture was represented appropriately and respectfully.

The series draws inspiration from the arts and cultural heritage of Lanna, Tai ethnic groups, China and Myanmar, which have been creatively blended and adapted to fit the fictional world of the story, according to the company.

Some Myanmar actors and social media users have also been criticizing the series on social media, presenting evidence and references related to Myanmar traditional costumes and the oil lamp dance.

The series stars popular Thai actors, including Tu Tontawan, Win Metawin, Nanon Korapat, Phuwin Tangsakyuen and Perth Tanapon.