Tourism

AWC Targets Premium Tourism Market, Acquires Blue Ocean Dome from Osaka Expo to Launch World-Class Attraction at Asiatique The Riverfront by Year-End

Asset World Corp is acquiring the Blue Ocean Dome from Japan's 2025 World Expo and will open it at Bangkok's Asiatique The Riverfront by year-end as part of an 8-billion-baht investment to attract premium tourists to Thailand.

12 May Khaosod

Asset World Corp (AWC) is pushing forward with its 'Quality Tourism' strategy to elevate Thai tourism toward the premium market, highlighting its strengths in safety, international standards, and authentic Thai experiences. The company is committed to continuous investment, allocating over 8 billion baht to develop a new riverside landmark through the acquisition of the Blue Ocean Dome from the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan. This 1,600-square-meter facility will open at Asiatique The Riverfront as a world-class attraction by late this year.

Vallabha Trisorn, AWC's President and Chief Executive Officer, outlined the company's 'Boost the Quality' strategy aimed at elevating Thai tourism standards to meet the evolving needs of high-value travelers who prioritize safety, international standards, and unique experiences. Despite global economic uncertainties, Thailand remains a key tourism destination, particularly for international conferences, seminars, and events, thanks to its strengths in safety, service quality, and distinctive cultural offerings.

AWC is focused on attracting quality travelers to Thailand while upgrading its assets and projects to cater to the premium market, especially the ultra-luxury and experience tourism segments that value experiences over accommodation alone. However, the company acknowledges that global tourism faces pressure from countries promoting domestic tourism, particularly India, a key Thai market, requiring operators to continuously adjust marketing strategies and expand their customer base.

Despite these challenges, AWC's performance exceeds targets in both customer volume and revenue growth, with the company optimistic about setting new records this year, though it continues to monitor global economic conditions closely. For 2026, AWC expects the second and third quarters to be low seasons by nature, but advance booking pace remains solid, particularly from the U.S. market and Thai domestic travelers.

Chinese tourist arrivals are growing at approximately 33%, while Thai domestic tourism has surged 36%, reflecting increased domestic travel behavior. Though some European markets like the UK and Germany are slowing, French tourists are partially compensating for the decline. AWC currently operates 24 hotels in its investment pipeline with a total portfolio of 58 projects, of which 27 are undergoing value enhancement studies through market repositioning to increase room rates, attract high-purchasing-power customers, and boost long-term asset returns.

The company's key strategy going forward is creating distinctive 'Lifestyle Destinations' unique to each location, rather than developing standard real estate projects. These will integrate cultural and artistic experiences, wellness and health services, sports, and entertainment. One major project is Pattaya Asiatique, which AWC is developing into an Active Wellness Lifestyle Destination to position Pattaya as a premier wellness tourism city.

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National

Forgetfulness May Not Be Minor: Check Now—What Type of Memory Loss Signals Early Brain Decline

A Thai hospital deputy director identifies seven warning signs of early cognitive decline, including forgetting recent events while remembering the past, misplacing items, and getting lost on familiar routes—symptoms that go beyond normal a

12 May Khaosod

Quick check: forgetfulness might not be trivial. Dr. Jed reveals which types of memory loss warn of early cognitive decline and offers proven strategies to slow brain degeneration.

Dr. Jetsada Bunyavongvirocha, Deputy Director of Primary Care at Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, shared insights on Facebook about warning signs of brain degeneration. He addressed the common refrain "It's just a bit of forgetfulness; it happens with age," which he hears frequently. However, the truth is that minor memory lapses in some people may signal the initial stages of cognitive decline without their awareness. Early cognitive decline doesn't manifest dramatically but develops gradually, leading many to dismiss it.

If parents or loved ones begin showing these symptoms, it suggests their brain may already be declining in its early stages. Here are the warning signs to watch for:

1. Forgetting recent events while remembering older ones clearly—like not recalling what was discussed that morning or repeatedly asking the same question shortly after answering it. This differs from typical forgetfulness; with cognitive decline, the frequency increases, requiring constant reminders and gradually disrupting daily life without the person's awareness.

2. Forgetting and being unaware of it—while typically forgetful people know they've forgotten something, those with cognitive decline often don't realize the loss or are confident their memory is correct despite being wrong. Some may even argue or refuse to acknowledge correction, creating frequent family misunderstandings. This is a critical warning sign.

3. Placing items in unusual locations—like putting keys in the freezer or money in inappropriate places, then being unable to find them and suspecting others took them. This differs from typical placement in familiar spots and reflects disrupted thinking and memory connections, occurring increasingly as the disease progresses.

4. Disorientation regarding time, place, or routes—like getting lost on a familiar market route or confusing dates, times, or locations. This signals that "brain processing begins malfunctioning." Some may become confused between day and night or frequently misremember dates, affecting safety through becoming lost or unable to find their way home later.

5. Inability to perform routine tasks—like forgetting steps in a familiar recipe or misusing everyday items despite previous competence. This indicates the brain regions responsible for planning and sequencing are deteriorating, gradually requiring dependence on others for minor matters, often without the person's clear awareness.

6. Changed emotions and behavior—some become easily irritable, withdrawn, or show behavioral changes like social withdrawal or mood swings. These result from brain changes; some may develop anxiety or depression, with surrounding people noticing changes increasingly clearly.

7. Language difficulties—like inability to recall words, stuttering, or frequently misusing words, making communication harder. Unlike typical temporary word-forgetting, some may mislabel objects or speak incomplete sentences, creating daily communication problems with others.

What genuinely helps slow cognitive decline: - Regular exercise like brisk walking, swimming, or light weight training improves blood circulation to the brain and stimulates new brain cell formation - Exercise the mind through reading, brain games, or learning new things to stimulate neural connections - Sleep adequately—at least 6-7 hours nightly, when the brain repairs itself

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National

Thai Volleyball Names Pornprapan as Team Captain; Player Expresses Confidence in New Role

Thailand's volleyball federation appointed setter Pornprapan Gerdprachai as team captain for 2026 competitions after she returned from playing in the American league. The player, who previously captained the squad in 2022, expressed confide

12 May Khaosod

Thai Volleyball has appointed "Chompoo" Pornprapan Gerdprachai, the national team's setter, as captain for major competitions in 2026. Gerdprachai returned to the national team camp after completing her stint in the American league, where head coach "Coach Odd" Kiartipong Ratchakrainkai surprised her with the captaincy announcement for various competitions throughout 2026.

Gerdprachai expressed excitement and great honor at returning to the captain's role, which she previously held in 2022. She emphasized that this comeback represents increased responsibility, particularly given how significant 2026 will be for the team. Gerdprachai pledged to perform her duties to the best of her ability and expressed confidence in her leadership, believing she will guide her teammates toward achieving the best results possible this year.

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National

Lt. Gen. Thanathip Leads ISOC-Thai Veterans Foundation Delegation in Discussion with Region 3 Command to Accelerate Community Network Operations

Lt. Gen. Thanathip led security officials and Thai Veterans Foundation representatives in meetings with Region 3 Command to expand community engagement programs and strengthen public-sector cooperation on safety and security across central

12 May Khaosod

Lt. Gen. Thanathip Sawangkaeng, Director of the Public Affairs and Communications Office of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), led a delegation including Thai Veterans Foundation officials in meetings with Region 3 Command on May 12, 2025, to coordinate the expansion of public service programs and enhance community engagement in security matters across both central and provincial levels. The discussions focused on improving cooperation between security agencies and the public sector, with emphasis on elevating quality of life, ensuring safety for students and teachers in remote or high-risk areas, and strengthening relationships between government officials and citizens to build mutual trust and shared responsibility for community welfare. Additional topics included developing nationwide community network training programs at executive and provincial levels through the Thai Veterans Foundation to enhance public understanding and capacity in supporting the country's security missions. Lt. Gen. Thanathip stressed that public affairs work is crucial for building understanding, cooperation, and confidence between the government and citizens, which directly supports concrete security solutions through engaged community networks. ISOC remains committed to coordinating with all sectors—government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and community networks—to collectively ensure lasting security, safety, and prosperity for people throughout the nation.

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National

No Limits! G-Dragon Surprises Team with Condo Gift to Reward Decades of Loyalty

K-pop superstar G-Dragon gifted condominiums to long-time team members in late April, rewarding over 20 years of loyalty with the generous gesture that has sparked viral praise online.

12 May Khaosod

Buzz is spreading online once again as K-pop superstar G-Dragon makes headlines after reports emerged that he gifted condominiums to his long-time team members. The gesture has sparked a viral question from internet users: 'Are you still hiring?'

Kwon Ji-young, known professionally as G-Dragon, is the 38-year-old leader of legendary boy band BigBang and is recognized as the "King of K-pop." He is one of Asia's most influential artists and has achieved worldwide success.

Reports indicate that in late April, he presented apartment units to core members of his Team GD, including his manager and key staff members who have worked alongside him for over 20 years since his entertainment industry debut. While the exact number of recipients hasn't been disclosed, the gesture is widely viewed as a token of appreciation for their unwavering dedication and long-standing loyalty.

G-Dragon has previously stated his work philosophy: "My comfort comes second, but my team's well-being must always come first"—a clear reflection of his care for those around him.

The artist reportedly earned over 65 billion won from his agency Galaxy Corporation last year and owns multiple luxury properties across Seoul with a total asset value exceeding 56 billion won.

G-Dragon is also renowned for his generosity toward his team, typically offering compensation double the industry average and luxury gifts including gold bars, diamonds, and designer watches. He famously gifted gold necklaces valued at approximately 1.65 million won each to every dancer on his world tour. He's also known for presenting gold jewelry to pregnant female employees and is regarded as one of K-pop's most team-focused artists.

This latest condo gift further solidifies G-Dragon's image as a successful artist with wealth, fame, and deep loyalty to his team—a story that continues to go viral online.

"GD is always amazing. We love GD," one netizen commented.

"Are you still hiring? What do we need to do to join your team?" asked another.

"I really admire his generosity and sincerity toward his team," another user noted.

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National

Kasetsart University Unlocks Solution to Revive Thai Seas with 'KU-SST' Technology, Successfully Transplants Seagrass to New Areas for First Time

Kasetsart University developed the 'KU-SST technique' to identify ideal seagrass planting locations, achieving a breakthrough by successfully transplanting fast-growing seagrass to new areas for the first time in Thailand's 20-year restorat

12 May Khaosod

Kasetsart University's Seagrass and Climate Change Research Unit at the Faculty of Fisheries has achieved a significant breakthrough in marine resource restoration following the successful development of the 'KU-SST technique' (KU Smart Site Selection for Seagrass Transplantation), an innovation that evaluates the suitability of seagrass planting sites. This technology increases survival rates and promotes seagrass expansion in concrete, measurable ways, representing a crucial step in coastal ecosystem conservation and addressing Thailand's climate change crisis.

Associate Professor Chatchree Kaewsuralip, Deputy Director of the Seagrass and Climate Change Research Unit and Faculty of Fisheries lecturer, revealed that over the past 20 years, Thailand has continuously attempted seagrass transplantation and restoration, yet has never achieved scalable success due to a critical limitation: unsuitable site selection and use of slow-growing seagrass species. Previous efforts primarily used 'long-leaf sea grass,' a variety requiring up to two years to produce new shoots from a single plant.

To address this problem, the research team spent over five years developing the KU-SST technique, collecting data from more than 600 seagrass sites across Thailand, covering both the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman coasts. The data underwent statistical analysis to determine environmental factor scores, which were integrated into a geographic information system to create suitability assessment maps for seagrass planting, categorized into five levels from most to least suitable. Testing showed KU-SST achieved average accuracy of 80%, with some areas reaching 93% accuracy. A key advantage is that users can access the maps via Google Earth on mobile devices for field implementation.

For testing the KU-SST technique, researchers selected 'short-leaf sea grass' or turtle seagrass, a faster-growing variety, and planted specimens from nearby areas in 'a completely new area with no previous seagrass.' The results were impressive: just three seagrass plants grew and multiplied into 58 plants within ten months—nearly a 20-fold increase—while surviving severe tidal lows and fierce monsoons, clearly demonstrating the effectiveness of site selection using KU-SST technology.

Associate Professor Chatchree credited the success to funding support from the National Research Council, which promotes research addressing genuine national needs, and private sector support from Bangchak Corporation and Thai President Foods.

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National

Labor Department Faces Major Challenge as Thai Workers Flee Employers, Triggering South Korea Ban on Four Provinces

South Korea has suspended worker placements from four Thai provinces after Thai agricultural workers fled their employers at rates exceeding 20%, threatening Thailand's reputation and legal work opportunities in the region.

12 May Khaosod

On May 12, 2025, Somchai Marakatsriwan, director-general of the Department of Employment under the Labor Ministry, addressed the issue of Thai agricultural workers fleeing their employers while working in South Korea under E-8 visas. South Korea has blacklisted four Thai provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, and Chaiyaphum—suspending all worker placements under this visa type due to escapes exceeding the agreed threshold.

Thailand currently sends workers to South Korea through multiple channels, particularly for seasonal agricultural work. The Thai government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with seven South Korean districts to place Thai workers on E-8 visas for approximately 5-6 months before returning home, with the option to work again in subsequent seasons.

A critical MOU condition requires that workers not flee their employers. If any province exceeds a 20% escape rate, it faces immediate suspension from sending workers under E-8 visas—a standard provision in similar agreements with other nations, not exclusive to Thailand.

To date, Thailand has sent 80 workers under E-8 visas. South Korea reported that four provinces exceeded the 20% escape threshold. Somchai acknowledged this as a significant problem affecting legitimate workers who wish to work legally but lose their opportunity through no fault of their own.

When asked about the scale of escapes, Somchai stated it hasn't reached half the total sent, though some provinces exceed 20% while others like Buriram and Surin remain below the threshold. He ordered provincial employment offices to contact families to locate escaped workers and facilitate their return.

Under South Korean law, visa violations carry criminal penalties including imprisonment and fines. Thailand currently lacks direct criminal penalties but must implement additional measures as worker escapes harm Thailand's overall reputation and could eliminate legal work opportunities for interested Thai workers.

Approximately 45 workers from Nong Khai and Ubon Ratchathani await South Korean Embassy visa approval and remain unaffected as they're not from blacklisted provinces. Somchai noted this marks the first time South Korea has blacklisted Thai provinces, despite Thailand signing the MOU earlier.

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National

Corner Power Play – Thaksin's Role in Pheu Thai

Thaksin's early release boosts Pheu Thai's momentum and party unity, but risks overshadowing younger leaders like Anutin if the party relies too heavily on the former PM's political dominance rather than developing its own next-generation v

12 May Khaosod

Thaksin's early release from prison represents a major turning point for the Pheu Thai Party. Beyond reinvigorating the party, it's expected to restore confidence among MPs, senior party figures, and scattered political networks, bringing them back into alignment. Thaksin possesses considerable strengths in political strategy, power dynamics understanding, grassroots sentiment awareness, networking capabilities with business and political figures, and agenda-setting abilities. These assets should help keep Pheu Thai in the public spotlight. Yet there are significant cautionary concerns. First, his dominating command style could resurface as a weapon for attacking the party. Although party leaders explain Thaksin serves merely as advisor, overstepping could weaken the image of party ministers, leadership, and executives. Second, some younger voters view Thaksin as outdated politics and believe Thailand shouldn't be bound to traditional political families. If Pheu Thai leans too heavily on Thaksin's prestige, it risks losing political ground to the Move Forward Party next election. For Anutin Charnvirakul, positioned as future leader, Thaksin's return brings both benefits and pressure. The upside: it paves the way for talented younger members of the Shinawatra-Wongsawat family to gain grassroots network acceptance more easily. The downside: heightened scrutiny on whether Anutin grows through his own knowledge and abilities or merely as 'Thaksin's grandson.' Without creating his own distinctive achievements, he risks being compared to previous nominees. Thus, Thaksin's return may rescue Pheu Thai short-term, but the real challenge ahead is whether Pheu Thai can evolve from 'Thaksin's party' into 'the party of new generation.' Now that's the true test.

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National

Sirikanya Warns of Repeating History with World Cup Broadcasting Rights Purchase; Government Shouldn't Expect Just Popularity Points

A Pheu Thai deputy warns that a 1.3 billion baht cabinet plan to buy World Cup broadcasting rights risks repeating past funding mistakes, with unclear sources and potential harm to vulnerable groups' media access programs.

12 May Khaosod

On May 12, 2025, Sirikanya Tansukul, a list MP and deputy leader of the Pheu Thai Party, discussed the cabinet's approval of 1.3 billion baht for the NBTC to purchase World Cup broadcasting rights. She noted that the cabinet resolution remains unclear about who will actually purchase the rights and who will pay for them, raising concerns that history may repeat itself. Four years ago, funding came from multiple sources including approximately half from the Public Broadcasting, Television, and Telecommunications Development Fund (BTPC) and the Thai Sports Authority (SAT) sports fund, with private sector participation.

Sirikanya pointed out two previous issues with this approach. First, the BTPC fund was not designed for this type of use; its purpose is to serve vulnerable groups like low-income individuals and persons with disabilities by providing media access. Second, regarding the sports development fund, using it to purchase broadcasting rights rather than develop domestic sports raises questions about priorities.

She expressed concern that without clarity on funding sources and without private sector commitment, the government may resort to the same subsidy model. Sirikanya also noted a different context this time: the NBTC's Must Have regulations no longer require free World Cup broadcasts since it was removed from the mandatory list, and previous private sector involvement has proven problematic—as seen in the dispute between True and the NBTC over Must Carry rules, where viewers couldn't access broadcasts on all platforms.

Sirikanya argued that if the government hastily guarantees free viewing, it weakens negotiating power with international rights holders and private bidders, who may then demand state subsidies. She emphasized that while funds from these sources have specific purposes and shouldn't be diverted for short-term economic solutions, they should instead be returned to the treasury if not used as intended.

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Police

Famous Buddha Amulet Trader 'Noom Nakhon Pathom' Claims Case Stalled After Two Men Assault Him at Restaurant During Debt Settlement Meeting with 'Madame Kaeng'

A well-known Buddha amulet trader was severely beaten by two men at a restaurant in Nonthaburi during a debt settlement meeting on January 14, leaving him with a fractured skull and internal bleeding. Police have reviewed CCTV footage showi

12 May Khaosod

Panya Kraibuddikul, known as 'Noom Nakhon Pathom,' a prominent Buddha amulet trader and one of nine famous dealers, claims his assault case has stalled. He was attacked by two men wearing hand wraps who burst into a restaurant in the Chai Phraya area while he was meeting to settle a debt dispute with 'Madame Kaeng.' The incident occurred on January 14, 2025, when the two assailants struck him severely in the VIP room, leaving him with a fractured head, torn facial wounds, and internal bleeding. Restaurant staff intervened, allowing the attackers to escape on a motorcycle. Despite the incident, the case has reportedly made no progress, leading Kraibuddikul to suspect foul play. Deputy Police Colonel Supchai Srisak, commander of the Nonthaburi Province Police, revealed that authorities have reviewed CCTV footage showing the two men deliberately planning the attack, using hand wraps to conceal their intentions before targeting the victim. Police have now called additional witnesses for questioning and are preparing arrest warrants.

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National

Zodiac Forecast: Mars Transit Brings Windfall Fortune as Angels Open Doors to Major Luck—Everything You Touch Turns to Gold

Five zodiac signs—Libra, Leo, Dragon, Aries, and Scorpio—are entering a period of exceptional fortune following Mars's transit, with astrologer Mor Kaek Dol Bandal predicting windfall profits, career advancement, and major asset acquisition

12 May Khaosod

During this astrological period, each zodiac sign's destiny undergoes significant changes, with shifts occurring in both positive and challenging directions. Astrologer Mor Kaek Dol Bandal has identified five zodiac signs experiencing extraordinary fortune following Mars's transit: Libra, Leo, Dragon, Aries, and Scorpio. These signs are primed to experience exceptional prosperity where everything they pursue becomes profitable. The divine realm is opening unprecedented lucky pathways, with work that once seemed exhausting beginning to bear fruit and supplementary income arriving in abundance. Influential figures show strong support, and those previously constrained by financial difficulties will find their troubles resolving. Opportunities for acquiring major assets like homes and vehicles are on the horizon, with charisma and attractiveness reaching peak levels.

The five most fortunate signs are:

1. Libra: Everything turns profitable; divine luck arrives unexpectedly. Career momentum surges; prepare for a windfall.

2. Leo: Charisma and charm are irresistible to influential people. Prospects for acquiring homes, vehicles, and major possessions abound, while finances flow smoothly. Travel brings additional luck.

3. Dragon: The time for exhaustion has passed as previous efforts begin yielding results. Supplementary income streams in steadily, reputation shines, and endeavors progress smoothly.

4. Aries: Overflowing energy with constant support from others; adversaries face their own troubles. Previously stuck financial matters begin resolving, and new income opportunities emerge in abundance.

5. Scorpio: Destiny stands brilliantly highlighted with prospects for promotions and substantial salary increases. Single individuals should prepare to meet high-profile partners who will set hearts racing.

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