Vietnamese singer apologizes after controversial bikini photoshoot at well of 'spiritual significance'

Her swimsuit photoshoot went viral on social media on Monday morning, sparking debate among online users.

Critics argued that the act of bathing in the well was inappropriate, particularly given circulating claims that the site held spiritual significance.

Tran Viet Quang, chairman of the People’s Committee of Quy Nhon Dong Ward, said that local authorities were aware of the images and public reaction.

He clarified that the so-called Fairy Well is, in fact, a small freshwater source emerging naturally from a rocky crevice along the Eo Gio coastline.

The well was later constructed by locals using stone to store water, primarily to serve tourism after development projects were introduced to the area.

Quang emphasized that the well is modest in size and is typically used by beachgoers to rinse off with fresh water after swimming in the sea.

He said that locals do not rely on the well for drinking or daily household use.

He also noted that its name was created largely as a branding effort to attract tourists, rather than reflecting any established cultural or spiritual heritage.

The site is not classified as a protected historical or cultural monument.

Authorities are now planning to install informational signage to better guide visitors.

The controversy intensified as social media users shared images of a sign describing the well as a naturally gifted freshwater source associated with good fortune.

However, Juky San’s team stated that no such signage or warnings were visible at the time of the photoshoot.

In a statement released the same day, the singer expressed regret for the incident.

She explained that the photos were taken during a trip intended to capture the natural beauty of the Eo Gio coastline and promote the destination.

However, the team had inadvertently chosen Fairy Well as a backdrop for her photoshoot.

“I sincerely apologize for causing discomfort and concern,” she wrote.

She wrote that due to having not had the opportunity to thoroughly learn about local beliefs and culture, she assumed it was simply a natural setting.

She stressed that she had no intention of disrespecting or offending the area’s cultural values.

She described the incident as a ‘valuable lesson’ in responsibility and cultural sensitivity.

Following public feedback, the singer and her team promptly removed all related images from social media platforms.