National

Adrian Stockman, Thai-Swedish Midfielder, Denies Being Approached to Play for Thai National Team

Thai-Swedish midfielder Adrian Stockman denied reports that he agreed to play for Thailand's national team, telling Swedish media he has never been contacted by the Thai Football Association. The Malmö player said his focus remains solely o

5 May Khaosod

Adrian Stockman, a Thai-Swedish midfielder, has confirmed through Swedish media that he has never been approached by the Football Association of Thailand to play for the national team.

Earlier, there were reports that the Thai national team had been in contact with several mixed-heritage players to strengthen the squad for upcoming competitions. Reports suggested that Adrian Stockman, a midfielder for Malmö in Sweden's top league, had agreed to help the Thai team during the FIFA international window in June.

When addressing this matter, Thai national team coach Anthony Hudson told media on April 20 that he had discussed with Stockman and his family their future plans, but could not reveal specific details because some players have the option to represent other nations, which could also affect their club commitments.

Now, Stockman has come forward to Swedish media outlet fotbolldirekt, questioning where the reports about him playing for Thailand originated. He stated: "I've seen those reports too, but there's no factual basis for them. I've never been in contact with the Thai Football Association. I wonder where they got this news from. It might just be expectations people have about me, but it's not actually true."

When asked if he would travel to Thailand after the first half of Sweden's league season, Stockman, who plays for Sweden's under-21 national team, said he would not, emphasizing his focus remains "only on Sweden."

Regarding the attention he's received in Thailand, Stockman acknowledged it's flattering but suggested it could be handled better: "It's nice to receive attention, but it could be done better. By releasing news like that, many people actually believe it—some even claim it's been confirmed that I've chosen the Thai national team."

Stockman added that he's not upset about the reports and that the truth will eventually emerge. When asked about future possibilities of playing for Thailand if he doesn't make Sweden's senior squad, he replied: "Of course, it's something I think about, but right now I'm not really considering it."

Adrian Stockman was born on November 23, 2005, and is a Thai-Swedish midfielder currently playing for Malmö in Sweden's top division. The 20-year-old was born in Sweden to a Swedish father and Thai mother.

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Breaking

Son Describes Desperate Search for Mother After Severe Storm Before Finding Her Body

A severe storm in Chainat province killed a 74-year-old woman whose son launched a desperate search after her home was damaged and calls went unanswered, with over 400 homes affected across the region.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2025, authorities reported that a severe summer storm struck Muang District in Chainat province, toppling 50 high-voltage power lines (22 kilovolts) across a distance of more than 2 kilometers along Phaholyothin Road in Subdistrict Suo Hok. The disaster claimed the life of 74-year-old Ms. Thawon (surname withheld). The family has since held a merit-making ceremony at Noen Than Temple as relatives mourn her passing. Inspectors found her home severely damaged with the roof nearly completely blown away and belongings soaked by rain, making it uninhabitable. Family members have temporarily relocated to relatives' homes.

Her 48-year-old son, Kittiphon (surname withheld), recounted that on the day of the incident, his mother had intended to bring curry to deliver to his sister who lived 12 kilometers away, as she normally did out of concern for her. However, the storm intensified suddenly, damaging the roof of his mother's home. He attempted to call her but received no answer, so he prepared to take his pickup truck to search for her. When his sister came out to help search, they found only dozens of toppled power poles before rescue workers informed them of the tragic news.

Kittiphon revealed that he had previously planned to sell his truck to raise money for home repairs to provide his mother comfort, but now that intention will never be fulfilled. His 32-year-old nephew, Khuanchai (surname withheld), shared his emotional shock upon learning the news, explaining that he was too devastated to read the message himself and had his girlfriend read it to him before rushing back from Chonburi province to say a final goodbye to his beloved grandmother.

Beyond the sudden loss of life, the storm affected over 400 homes and left residents without power for extended periods as authorities work urgently to restore electricity.

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Police

Germany: Car Crashes Into Crowd in Shopping District, Kills 2 and Injures Dozens

A car plowed through a shopping district in Leipzig, Germany on Wednesday, killing two people and injuring 22 others before the driver was arrested; authorities say there's no indication of political or religious motives.

5 May Khaosod

A car struck pedestrians in Leipzig, Saxony, in eastern Germany on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 4 local time, resulting in at least 2 deaths and 22 injuries, with 2 of the injured in serious condition. Leipzig Mayor Burkhard Jung stated the suspect has been arrested, though authorities have not yet determined a clear motive. Police confirmed the vehicle hit people in the central Grimmaische Straße shopping district before the driver fled and was subsequently apprehended. Prosecutors identified the deceased as a 63-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man, both German citizens. Authorities are investigating the suspect for murder and attempted murder, and stated there is "no basis on current knowledge" to suggest religious or political motives were involved.

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National

Pond Opens Up About Tense Moment Fleeing Sasaeng Fans – Phuwit Reveals Previous Encounter With Aggressive Fan

Thai actor Pond Narawitch describes a frightening encounter with aggressive sasaeng fans at a Shanghai hotel, prioritizing the safety of bystanders over his own during the incident. The actor stressed the need for fans to support artists re

5 May Khaosod

Pond Narawitch reveals the frightening moment he rushed away from sasaeng fans in the middle of Shanghai, expressing more concern for those around him than himself – Phuwit discloses he once witnessed a sasaeng confrontation with a guard due to lack of footage, with the team being the first to face the situation.

The incident sparked worry among fans after a viral clip showed Pond hurrying away from a group attempting to approach him at a Shanghai hotel, with his team quickly ushering him into an elevator and securing the area for safety. This is seen as another example of the escalating sasaeng problem and invasion of artists' privacy abroad. Most recently, Pond Narawitch and Phuwit Satitayapun attended the "LEGO CERTIFIED STORE OPENING" at Siam Paragon Fashion Hall, where Pond acknowledged feeling startled and chose to leave quickly to avoid causing chaos or affecting others nearby. He confirmed that his team and agency had security measures in place, but emphasized his main concern wasn't himself but the general public, staff, and tourists who could be affected by such incidents. He also appealed to fans to support artists responsibly for everyone's safety.

When asked to describe the incident, Pond explained: "I was more startled than anything. The situation happened so suddenly with people approaching us unexpectedly. I've never experienced this before in my life. We were in a hotel area, and I didn't want to cause commotion. My team had already arranged for an elevator, so as soon as we got out of the car, we just went straight into it."

When questioned if there were preceding events before deciding to run, Pond responded: "Honestly, my main concern was that the people around us would be troubled. If I had walked slowly, other tourists or people who don't know what's happening might get startled. We didn't want to create chaos, so we quickly got into the elevator and returned to our room."

Asked if his team warned him beforehand about such incidents, Pond said: "Actually, they prepared very well. Whether it's the security team or the entire staff, they informed us what to be careful about. But I didn't want to trouble the team either, because if I walked slowly, they'd have to wait and struggle. So I felt it was better to move quickly."

When asked if he felt unsafe during that moment, Pond replied: "If you ask whether it was safe or not, I can't really say. But one thing is certain – I felt startled and chose to protect myself. I wasn't even sure if those people were actually our fans or something else. It was the first time this happened in my life."

Asked if this was his normal approach, Pond confirmed: "Yes, normally I'm quiet and reserved, but I felt this might create problems for people around us, and that was the main factor."

Phuwit added: "I think it's important to mention that in many places we've visited, whether it's us or other artists from Thailand or Thai artists abroad, we've encountered similar situations many times. But they usually aren't recorded or don't leak out. In most previous cases, our team brought Thai security along with local security from those countries.

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National

Team Thailand+ Launches SelectUSA 2026 Mission to Expand Trade and Investment Opportunities

Team Thailand+ is promoting bilateral trade and investment at the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026 in the United States, where Thai officials met with US commerce and trade representatives to advance economic cooperation and signed an agric

5 May Khaosod

Team Thailand+, led by the Minister of Commerce, has officially launched its mission at the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026 to elevate Thailand-US trade and investment cooperation.

The SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026 runs from May 3-6, 2026, hosted by the US Department of Commerce, welcoming business leaders and investors from over 100 countries. This year features approximately 2,700 investors and investment promotion agencies (EDOs) from all 50 US states and territories, totaling over 1,100 organizations. US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick presided over the opening ceremony, emphasizing this year's theme: "Future Ready: Reshaping Global Business & Manufacturing Renaissance," which focuses on industrial manufacturing revival alongside development of future technologies including semiconductors, clean energy, biotechnology, and modern supply chains to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into the United States.

On the first day, the Thai delegation participated in the opening ceremony and meet-and-greet sessions with US Department of Commerce representatives to exchange views on economic policy, trade, and future investment trends. Private sector representatives updated their investment plans with US counterparts.

In the afternoon, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce held discussions with the US Trade Representative (USTR) to advance trade, investment cooperation, and trade facilitation, while exchanging policy information on key issues. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Thai Animal Feed Producers Association and US private sector partners regarding agricultural imports from the United States.

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National

Democrat Party Touts Candidate Qualifications for Bangkok Governor, Confirms Full Slate of 50 District Council Candidates

The Democrat Party confirmed its full slate of 50 Bangkok district candidates and will announce its governor candidate in mid-May, with party leaders expressing confidence they'll win significantly more seats than in the previous election d

5 May Khaosod

At noon on May 5, 2569, Sakolthee Phatthiyakul, Democrat Party list MP and deputy party leader for Bangkok, disclosed the results of the Democrat Party's candidate selection committee meeting for Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly (BMA) candidates. The party will announce its complete slate of 50 district candidates this evening following executive committee approval. The candidates include approximately 12-13 former BMA members and members from other parties including Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai who have worked cooperatively with the Democrats, plus strong performing former candidates and new generation members. Sakolthee noted that BMA elections are generally less competitive than national parliamentary races, and expressed confidence that with Abhisit Vejjajiva's return as party leader, the Democrat Party's popularity in Bangkok has grown substantially. He believes the party will win significantly more districts than in the previous BMA election, unlike the parliamentary elections where the Bhumjaithai Party won all 33 Bangkok seats. Regarding the selection criteria for candidates from other parties, Sakolthee stated that the selection committee thoroughly reviewed their work performance, approach, and ideology. Many are former Democrat members or ex-senators and assemblymen. The party will announce the Bangkok governor candidate in mid-May, as the selected candidate needs to complete current work obligations first. When asked about competing against incumbent Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, Sakolthee acknowledged he is a formidable 'former champion' with strong public support. However, the Democrat Party has identified gaps in his administration, including insufficient CCTV coverage expansion, inadequate feeder bus systems connecting residents to public transport, and other development areas. The Democrats' candidate and Bangkok team are prepared to address these issues. Regarding suggestions that Bangkok residents prefer independent candidates over party-affiliated ones, Sakolthee countered by referencing the 2565 gubernatorial election, questioning whether Chadchart was truly independent. He noted that media outlets know which parties supported Chadchart and believes the public desires clarity about candidate affiliations and their teams. Sakolthee emphasized that the Democrat Party operates transparently, backing party-endorsed candidates directly, and maintains that transparency benefits voters wanting to know their representatives' true affiliations. He acknowledged both advantages and disadvantages to independent candidacies, but noted that the Democrats provide candidates policy freedom while believing that BMA members ultimately prioritize constituents' interests regardless of party affiliation. Sakolthee highlighted the Bangkok governor candidate's main strength: he immediately accepted when Abhisit approached him, and brings substantial experience to the role.

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National

Pokémon Center Set to Launch in Thailand – The Largest Flagship Store Outside Japan

Thailand's first Pokémon Center will open at Bangkok's CentralwOrld mall by 2026, becoming the largest flagship store outside Japan and a major Southeast Asian hub for fans seeking immersive experiences and events.

5 May Khaosod

Thailand is preparing to welcome its first Pokémon Center, marking a major milestone as the largest store of its kind outside Japan. Pokémon (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has partnered with Central Pattana, a leading sustainable real estate developer, to open "Pokémon Center BANGKOK" at CentralwOrld shopping mall in central Bangkok by 2026, positioning Thailand as a genuine global lifestyle destination.

The signing ceremony was attended by Shunsuke Sasaki, executive director of Pokémon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and Isares Jiratiwat, Head of Leasing – Fashion & Luxury at Central Pattana, reflecting a significant strategic partnership. The event was highlighted by an appearance of Pikachu dressed in Thai-inspired attire, symbolizing the blend of Thai culture with the Pokémon world.

Elevating the Pokémon Experience in Thailand

The opening of "Pokémon Center BANGKOK" represents a major expansion of Pokémon's business in Southeast Asia, serving as the largest flagship store outside Japan. This reflects confidence in Thailand's market potential as a high-growth region with an expanding fan base and a key lifestyle and tourism destination. The Pokémon Center is more than a merchandise store—it's a complete immersive space where fans can experience the Pokémon world through trading card tournaments, special events, and the latest news updates. With existing locations in Singapore (opened 2019) and Taipei (opened 2023), "Pokémon Center BANGKOK" will become the third international location.

The new store is positioned as a destination rather than merely a retail outlet for global Pokémon fans. CentralwOrld was selected as the inaugural location due to its status as a world-class landmark in central Bangkok with high foot traffic from both Thai citizens and tourists, and its reputation as a global destination where world-class brands create experiences. This strategic positioning will truly elevate "Pokémon Center BANGKOK" as a major destination for Pokémon fans across the region.

Strengthening a New Landmark Through Partnership with Central Pattana

The collaboration with Central Pattana combines the strengths of both organizations to create new value in the shopping mall experience. Central Pattana brings expertise in developing national landmarks, while the Pokémon brand enjoys global recognition. The opening of "Pokémon Center BANGKOK" is expected to enhance the appeal of the shopping mall, create new reasons for visitors to travel to Bangkok, and contribute significantly to Thailand's tourism industry in the long term.

Executive Perspective

Shunsuke Sasaki, Executive Director of Pokémon (Thailand) Co., Ltd., stated: "We are greatly honored to open the first Pokémon Center in Thailand at CentralwOrld. This partnership represents a significant milestone for Pokémon in the region, and we are delighted to collaborate with Central Pattana. For this Bangkok project, we envisioned 'where would a Pokémon Center belong in Bangkok?' and the answer was a place brimming with people and vibrant energy—CentralwOrld."

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Breaking

Power lines blaze outside 7-Eleven near Phayao Uni

An electrical short circuit sparked a dramatic power line fire outside a 7-Eleven near Phayao University, destroying communication lines and damaging two poles before rescue workers cut power and extinguished the blaze.

5 May Khaosod

PHAYAO — A dramatic fire broke out in front of a 7-Eleven convenience store opposite the University of Phayao after a severe electrical short circuit ignited overhead power lines and communication lines.

Witnesses said a loud explosion was heard before sparks began falling from the cables, which quickly caught fire. Flames spread rapidly along the communication wires, flaring high in the air and causing panic among nearby residents and students, who fled the area for safety.

Provincial Electricity Authority officials and rescue workers rushed to the scene, cutting power immediately to prevent further spread before working to extinguish the blaze. It took some time to bring the fire under control.

Initial reports indicated that at least two poles were damaged, while numerous communication lines were destroyed. Authorities are now working to repair and replace the damaged infrastructure to restore electricity as soon as possible.

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National

Top 4 Zodiac Signs When Mercury Moves: Exceptional Good News Coming, Fortune About to Rise

Four zodiac signs—Taurus, Virgo, Dragon, and Cancer—are poised for sudden fortune and prosperity after May 10, 2026, as Mercury's movement clears obstacles and opens new opportunities for financial gain and success.

5 May Khaosod

Teacher White presents the top 4 zodiac signs blessed by Mercury's movement, revealing which signs are hitting their lowest point in the year and which are about to experience sudden fortune and prosperity.

Rank 1: Taurus

During the past month, the financial planet entered the house of destruction, causing severe hardship, stress, and difficult problems. After May 10, 2026, when Mercury exits the destructive house, your fate will recover. Good news will arrive to replace what was lost, bringing new blessings and greater prosperity. During this period, focus on merit-making and helping those in need.

Rank 2: Virgo

After a major impact from Mercury's entry into the death house, which damaged your fortune—finances, health, and stress—you've already passed the lowest point of the year. After May 10, 2026, begin anew. Let go of losses and failures; start fresh with better opportunities in positions, projects, and work. Money will flow in rapidly.

Rank 3: Dragon

Exciting news awaits—new beginnings, opportunities to do what you love, and happiness. Negotiations will bring prosperity and successful business. Between May 10-27, 2026, major success is coming, with income flowing from multiple sources. Seek blessings from trusted deities during this period.

Rank 4: Cancer

You're in a waiting period as your fortune is about to surge with sudden good luck. Long-anticipated matters and hopes are nearing completion. Someone will bring you great news. After May 10, 2026, success begins its ascent—your greatness is returning with flowing income.

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National

Prime Minister Announces Cabinet Approval for 400 Billion Baht Emergency Loan Decree, Pledges Strict Fiscal Discipline

Thailand's government secured cabinet approval for a 400 billion baht emergency loan to combat the energy crisis and ease living costs for low-income earners, farmers, and small businesses, with plans to transition toward modern energy infr

5 May Khaosod

At noon on May 5, 2026, at the Phakdi Bodin Building of the Government House, Prime Minister Anusit Charnveerakul and the Interior Minister led a cabinet announcement regarding the government's decision to issue a Royal Decree granting the Finance Ministry authority to borrow 400 billion baht to address impacts from the energy crisis and facilitate the country's energy transition.

The decision stems from the Middle East conflict situation, which has severely impacted global energy prices and the economy. The crisis has spread from energy costs to food and living expenses—a situation that is neither normal nor one that can be postponed.

The Prime Minister stated that the government's duty is to prevent Thailand's economy from entering stagflation—a combination of high inflation and economic slowdown. Therefore, swift action is necessary, requiring the use of special instruments such as this Royal Decree under clear legal principles, qualifying as an urgent emergency case that cannot be avoided. The decree aims to relieve the burden on citizens' living costs and sustain economic activity.

Measures under this decree will target key groups requiring urgent assistance, including low-income and middle-income earners, farmers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and sectors directly affected by rising energy costs.

Two parallel approaches will be implemented: First, providing relief by reducing living cost burdens on citizens while lowering production costs, particularly for agriculture through fertilizer and essential production input procurement. Second, structural transformation by seizing this opportunity to transition to modern energy, restructure the country's energy infrastructure, reduce fossil fuel dependence, ensure stable energy costs, and eliminate previous volatility.

The Prime Minister emphasized that this decree serves as a tool to guide the country through the crisis and establishes foundations for reducing future economic vulnerability while maintaining strict fiscal discipline. The solution will not eliminate global crisis impacts but will strengthen Thai people to cope better and help vulnerable populations weather this crisis together, ultimately positioning Thailand with maximum resilience for future challenges.

"The government is committed to standing with the people in solving problems arising from current global turmoil. We will do everything within our capacity to help people navigate this crisis successfully," the Prime Minister stated.

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National

Pheu Thai Won't Abandon Bangkok! Party Confirms Candidate Slate for BMA Council, Confident in Holding Core Districts Despite Political Shifts

Pheu Thai will field candidates across its 20 existing Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly constituencies despite recent political shifts, with the party confident in maintaining its current seat count based on grassroots work and past policy ach

5 May Khaosod

At 11:45 a.m. on May 5, 2569, at Government House, Ms. Theerayut Samraja, deputy leader of Pheu Thai Party overseeing Bangkok, discussed preparations for fielding candidates for Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly (BMA) seats. She confirmed that Pheu Thai's existing BMA constituencies will continue competing, requesting permission to use the party logo—which the party has not opposed. Therefore, candidates can register under the Pheu Thai Party banner.

When asked if candidates would contest all 50 districts, Theerayut stated they won't cover all seats. Although the party has available personnel, they must assess conditions in each area. Among Pheu Thai's 20 existing constituencies, some candidates remain while others have switched to independent or alternative slate candidacies. The party will therefore select candidates from both existing and new aspirants and aims to finalize the candidate list quickly. Currently, multiple groups are working on this process, and at minimum, existing constituencies without named candidates will continue competing. Preliminary figures show around 20 names available, consisting of those currently working with the party and those proposing themselves as local representatives.

When asked if she's confident the party will maintain its current BMA seat count, Theerayut expressed belief in the party's strength, citing Pheu Thai's continuous grassroots work, community engagement, and track record of addressing public problems through proper channels. A primary BMA council function is examining Bangkok municipal legislation. Many policies announced in 2565 have been successfully advanced, and the party believes its achievements will resonate with voters. However, she distinguished this from the recent general election results, as BMA elections involve different variables than national legislative races.

When asked if she's concerned the BMA election landscape might shift like the general election did, Theerayut stated the party remains committed to serving the public regardless of outcomes. Pheu Thai, she emphasized, is a political institution that must continue working for the people whether elected or not.

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