A bus carrying Chinese tourists overturned in Vietnam, killing 4 and injuring 8

A serious bus crash involving Chinese tourists in Quang Nam province, Vietnam, on July 18th has left four dead and eight critically injured, according to an announcement from the Chinese Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. The bus, carrying 21 Chinese tourists, toppled over in an unfortunate incident that has sparked a flurry of responses on Weibo, China's popular social media platform.

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18 July 2023

Following the incident, the consulate immediately activated emergency response mechanisms for the protection of Chinese citizens, coordinated with local public security and foreign affairs departments for rescue efforts, and contacted nearby Chinese-funded enterprises.

The news swiftly found its way to Chinese social media, with Weibo users expressing a range of emotions, from sorrow and empathy to anger and even xenophobia. Many users extended their condolences to the victims' families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

One Weibo user commented, "Why are you blaming the location of the accident? Accidents can happen anywhere, even in developed countries." This remark underscores the sentiment that mishaps can occur anywhere, and it is not necessarily a reflection of the country or place.

Many users chastised the narrow-mindedness of those blaming the victims for choosing to travel abroad. One netizen wrote, "Traveling abroad is not a crime, our country even has diplomatic relations [with Vietnam]. Put away your narrow-mindedness."

Several comments expressed superstition or distress about traveling during inauspicious times. One user wrote, "All the trending topics are about disasters; it's not a good time to travel."

However, some comments took a more negative tone. One user asked, "Why do they have to go to such poor and remote places when we have beautiful scenery here in China?"

A few users called for improvements in road conditions, particularly in mountainous regions. One netizen, apparently familiar with the route, pointed out, "The road from Da Lat to Nha Trang is too dangerous. When I went to Da Lat, I found several motorcyclists failing to slow down at corners. Da Lat is in the highlands and the speed going downhill to Nha Trang is very fast. It's easy to have an accident if you don't slow down."

Several users shared personal anecdotes, expressing shock upon hearing the news upon returning from Vietnam. One wrote, "Who would have thought? I just returned from Vietnam this afternoon, had a shower at home, and then saw this news."

While the comments on Weibo ranged from sympathetic to inflammatory, what shines through is the deep concern and sense of connection shared by the Chinese community. As investigations continue, the Chinese consulate and Vietnamese authorities are working closely together to provide aid and support to those affected by the tragedy.