Miss World 2025, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, gives an interview at a press conference at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel, Bangkok, on June 20, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/ Somjit Jaichuen)
BANGKOK — Thailand’s first Miss World winner, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, 21, has been home for one week, continuously drawing attention from beauty pageant fans and media. Beyond crown celebration activities, her homecoming has also focused on diplomatic matters as regional tensions dominate headlines.
The political science student from Thammasat University met Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at Government House on June 17, when the female prime minister was facing political crises involving both internal and external issues.
Opal said she understands the challenges of holding such a position, so she wanted to offer woman-to-woman support to encourage the Prime Minister in her continued work for the country.
Thailand’s first Miss World winner, Opal Suchata Chuangsri and the Chairperson of Miss World Organization, Julia Morley, meet Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at Government House on June 17, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/ Pattarayoot Phukpol)
The 72nd Miss World also told Paetongtarn that during the Miss World competition, she had used the Prime Minister as a role model for presenting Thai womanhood. The Prime Minister congratulated, praised, and encouraged Opal in her duties, including her “Opal For Her” breast cancer awareness campaign, and asked her to help promote Thai culture.
When questioned on a TV news program about ongoing Thai-Cambodian diplomatic tensions, Opal drew on her International Relations studies to respond diplomatically. “As Miss World, I represent all people regardless of who they are. What we can do is encourage peaceful dialogue that puts people first, especially children’s safety.”
Thailand’s first Miss World, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, takes part in the ‘Celebration Parade for Thailand’s First Miss World’ along Sukhumvit Road on June 14, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Surat Sapphakun)
She emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding in resolving conflicts, whether personal or international. “We can use wisdom and understanding to discuss what caused problems and find solutions together.”
Opal acknowledged that her Miss World role serves as valuable diplomatic training before potentially pursuing her intended career path in international relations.
Speaking at a press conference at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel on June 20, Opal outlined her upcoming international charity tour spanning at least 10 countries, including Indonesia and African nations. She plans to travel to the UK first once her work visa is processed.
“I entered the beauty pageant to travel the world doing charity work and to give Thai people something to be proud of for years to come,” Opal said. “These honors can’t be bought with money.”
Thailand’s first Miss World winner, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, gives an interview at a press conference at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel, Bangkok, on June 20, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/ Somjit Jaichuen)Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata Chuangsri performs at the press conference announcing the readiness of Jasmine International and MONO as the licensed broadcasters for English Premier League “New Season New Home” at STADIUM29 (MONO), Bangkok, on June 19, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Ekachai Rattanawong)Thailand’s first Miss World, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, takes part in the ‘Celebration Parade for Thailand’s First Miss World’ along Sukhumvit Road on June 14, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Jadesarit Chayathadathanasakul)
Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal, also known as Bang Sue Grand Station
BANGKOK — The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has awarded the 20-year trading concession for 47,675 square metres of space at Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal to PGWR Consortium, a new player in the sector.
SRT Governor Worawis Amrapal said that PGWR Consortium submitted its bid in the official tender dated March 7, 2023 for the commercial use of space in the main terminal. Originally, three companies had acquired the tender documents: Central Pattana PCL, King Power Suvarnabhumi Co, Ltd., and PGWR Consortium.
In the end, the PGWR consortium was the only group to submit a proposal. On June 12, 2025, the SRT Board of Directors approved the award of the concession to this consortium.
$4.8 Million Guaranteed Revenue in Year One
The PGWR consortium, although new on the market, proposed a minimum guarantee of 79.9 million baht ($2.4 million) to SRT for the first year, in addition to monthly rental fees.
They also offered: Monthly rental fee: 500 baht/sqm, annual inflation-linked price increases based on a 3-year average of the consumer price index announced by the Ministry of Commerce, and a service charge for common areas: 150 baht/sqm/month (about $4.57), subject to a 10% increase every 3 years.
Taken together; rent, minimum guarantee and service fees, the SRT is expected to generate 158.6 million baht ($4.82 million) in total revenue in the first year.
Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal, also known as Bang Sue Grand Station
62 Government Contracts in Portfolio
The PGWR Consortium consists of Prem Group Engineering Co. Ltd. and Warapattanasub Co, Ltd.
Prem Group Engineering Co., Ltd. was founded on 21 September 2006 and specialises in research, design, development and IT consulting as well as project management, system installation and maintenance. The company has earned a reputation for developing and integrating advanced technologies into operational systems.
It has secured 62 government contracts worth over 1.6 billion baht ($49 million), with major clients including:
Ministry of Finance
Department of Fisheries
Traffic Police Division
Royal Thai Police
Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
Expressway Authority of Thailand
BTS Group Holdings PCL
Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA)
Local Administration Department
Siemens (for MRTA project)
Singapore Technologies Electronics (STE)
Sumitomo Corporation (Japan), among others
Flagship Project: City Park Green Mall
WARAPATTANASUB Co., Ltd. is a property consultancy and development company that saw a remarkable retail expansion in 2016 with the opening of City Park Chaeng Watthana – Muang Thong Thani, the first green mall in western Bangkok.
City Park Chaeng Watthana – Muang Thong Than
This project, worth over 1 billion baht ($30.5 million), spans 21 rai (approximately 8.3 hectares) and combines urban lifestyle with nature. Inspired by the iconic areas of New York City; Times Square, Fifth Avenue and Central Park, the shopping centre offers retail shops, services and recreational areas in a landscape-oriented design.
It is strategically located with road connections to Chaeng Watthana–Vibhavadi–Muang Thong, Tiwanon–Pak Kret, Pracha Chuen and Si Saman roads.
Thailand’s Main Railway Hub
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, also known as Bang Sue Grand Station, serves as Thailand’s main railway hub. The facility, situated on the border between Chatuchak and Bang Sue districts, officially replaced the historic Hua Lamphong railway station as the country’s central terminal when long-distance rail services began operating from the new location on January 19, 2023.
The terminal stands as Southeast Asia’s largest railway station, featuring 26 platforms extending up to 600 meters in length. The massive complex offers 274,192 square meters of usable floor space across a 919-acre site on State Railway of Thailand-owned land. The 15-billion-baht ($458 million) project includes maintenance facilities for both diesel and electric train operations.
Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, talks to Commander of the 2nd Army Area Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, during a meeting with soldiers at Ubonratchathani province, northeast of Bangkok, June 20, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Pattarayoot Phukpol)
BANGKOK — Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra offered a formal apology to Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang during her visit to Ubon Ratchathani on Friday, addressing fallout from a leaked conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen in which she referred to the army commander as someone from “the opposing side.”
The private conversation, now public, has triggered a major political crisis for her administration.
While the visit to the Thai-Cambodia border base in Ubon Ratchathani province on June 20 appeared to go well and reflected unity between the government and military, maintaining Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s position and keeping the coalition government moving forward remains filled with numerous obstacles, with uncertainty about whether it can continue.
The political fallout has divided supporters and critics along predictable lines.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra performs a traditional wai greeting and states, “I formally apologize,” to Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang upon her arrival at Wing 21 Air Base, Ubon Ratchathani Province, on June 20, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Pattarayoot Phukpol)
Opposition Demands Resignation
Pheu Thai Party supporters and some academics argue that nothing in the 17-minute leaked audio clip can be used to attack her for personal gain, as she clearly stated she did not want war or casualties and refused Hun Sen’s demands to lift all border checkpoint restrictions, saying she needed to consult with the Defense Ministry first.
However, the People’s Party, opposition leaders and supporters, anti-Thaksin groups, and other academics insist the Prime Minister must resign to take responsibility for the embarrassment of having private conversations with someone she called “uncle,” only to have that same “uncle” release the entire recording.
Coalition Partners Withdraw Support
The leaked clip emerged as the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest party in government with 69 MPs, decided to withdraw from the coalition early this week. Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul insisted on refusing to move from the Interior Ministry to another ministry.
In their withdrawal letter released Tuesday evening, they demanded the Prime Minister take responsibility for causing Thailand to lose national honor and dignity.
While other coalition parties including Prachachart, Kla Tham, Chart Thai Pattana, and Democrat parties have voted to remain in government, some members disagree with this decision.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra raises her hands in a traditional Thai greeting gesture as she apologizes to the Thai people for the leaked private conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen regarding negotiations to resolve cross-border checkpoint operations between the two countries, at Government House on June 19, 2025. (KHAOSOD Photo/Pattarayoot Phukpol)
United Thai Nation Party Split
Another chaotic situation involves the United Thai Nation (UTN) Party, co-founded by former Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, which is currently split between supporters and opponents of party leader Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, with each faction having 18 MPs.
The UTN Party executive committee held a 2-hour emergency meeting on June 19, resolving to propose changing the Prime Minister from Paetongtarn to Chaikasem Nitisiri, the third-ranked candidate of the Pheu Thai Party.
However, the opposing faction announced the next day that they reject this resolution and continue supporting Paetongtarn as Prime Minister.
Juti Krairiksh, a party-list MP and Deputy Leader of UTN, warned that if the Prime Minister does not step down, UTN members will resign en masse. He emphasized any alteration to the resolution would require a new party meeting, which he believes is unlikely to happen.
Senate Moves for Removal
Meanwhile, many senators, particularly the blue faction close to Bhumjaithai Party, are moving forward. Senate President Mongkol Surasajja submitted petitions to the Constitutional Court and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to remove her from office over the leaked audio incident, following demands from the Senate Military Committee.
“The nation’s patience has now ended due to the situation caused by government leaders who lack capability, efficiency, and leadership. The country lacks unity, dignity, and honor,” the Senate Military Committee stated on June 19.
Mongkol is among senators summoned by the Election Commission’s Central Investigation Committee to explain allegations in the Senate election rigging case, known as the “Senate cartel case,” which runs parallel to money laundering investigations by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).
Hun Sen posted on June 20, 2025, photos of PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra during her official visit to Phnom Penh in April 2025, stating that she visited the bedrooms of former Thai PMs Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra at his residence.
Hun Sen Continues Pressure
While domestic political pressure mounts, Prime Minister Paetongtarn continues to face pressure from Cambodian leader Hun Sen, who publicly displays his close relationship with the Shinawatra family to compound the ongoing situation.
On Friday, Hun Sen posted photos of PM Paetongtarn during her official visit to Phnom Penh in April, stating that after official duties were completed, he invited her to dine at his home, where she also visited the bedrooms of former Prime Ministers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra at his residence.
Cabinet Reshuffle Negotiations
Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s navigation through this political storm will likely depend on a cabinet reshuffle that satisfies coalition partners with increased negotiating power. She has cited that Thailand needs a government that intensely protects sovereignty during this critical period. The reshuffle is expected to be completed within the next week or possibly over the weekend.
The government must also ensure military adherence to democratic principles without being swayed by calls for a military coup.
Meanwhile, officials must find ways to handle Hun Sen’s cross-border political games while hoping no more private conversation recordings emerge to cause further disruption.
Finally, the Thai government may need to involve ASEAN as a mediator to maintain regional peace and prevent escalation.
ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, joins in the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thailand–China diplomatic relations by partnering with Shanghai Yuyuan Tourist Mart Group Co., Ltd., the organizer of China’s most prestigious lantern festival, and Intersteps to host the grand event “Spirit of Mountains and Seas · Yuyuan Lantern Festival and 2025 China–Thailand Culture Month,” taking place from June 27 to August 15, 2025, for 50 days at ICONSIAM.
This festival marks a significant collaboration between ICONSIAM and Shanghai Yuyuan Tourist Mart Group, the long-established organizer of the iconic lantern festival in Shanghai with over one hundred years of history, officially recognized as part of China’s intangible cultural heritage.
This will be the first time in history that the Yuyuan Lantern Festival will be brought to life in Thailand, under the theme “Spirit of Mountains and Seas.” Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Shan Hai Jing (The Classic of Mountains and Seas), the festival brings its mythological world to life through contemporary lantern artistry, blending light, shadow, and interactive technology to create an immersive art experience—spectacular and unforgettable.
This groundbreaking initiative embodies ICONSIAM’s vision as a ‘Global Experiential Destination,’ committed to curating world-class cultural experiences that transcend borders, forge emotional connections, and bring people from all walks of life together. It also affirms ICONSIAM’s pivotal role as a true global destination.
Held in honor of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Thailand, the 50-day lantern festival will illuminate the banks of the Chao Phraya River as a glowing symbol of friendship between the two nations.
More than just a cultural showcase, it serves as an emotional bridge connecting the hearts of Thai and Chinese people, reinforcing the idea that “China and Thailand are one family.”
The festival will feature a fusion of cultural elements from both countries, offering breathtaking displays of friendship in visually captivating forms. The event space with Oriental Lifestyle Aesthetics will be designed around the central theme of an “island”—imagined as a magical land by the river, resembling a floating island lit up in dazzling hues. Each lantern installation will represent a mysterious island scattered across what will be called “The Islands of Chao Phraya.”
In addition to the lantern displays, the festival will include a wide array of cultural activities, such as traditional performances, a local goods market, themed culture weeks, and exhibitions of art and light. These elements aim to promote a deeper exchange of art, culture, cuisine, and business between the two countries.
This is a creative evolution of cultural heritage, connecting the beauty of traditional arts with modern lifestyles. The festival also offers China-Chic brands a valuable opportunity to reach Thai consumers more directly and to support the global expansion of “Wisdom in China” products.
Don’t miss this dazzling celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thailand–China diplomatic ties, a radiant spectacle of friendship set to shine on the world stage from June 27 to August 15, 2025 at River Park, ICONSIAM. Please note that June 27–28 will be reserved for invitation-only guests.
The event will be open to the general public starting from June 29, 2025. For more details, follow us on Facebook: ICONSIAM
The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO) proudly presents an epic symphonic concert, “Music from Marvel Studios,” conducted by renowned Thai conductor Vanich Potavanich. The performance will take place over two nights, on June 26 and 27, 2025 at 7:30 PM, at the Thailand Cultural Centre, Main Hall.
This electrifying concert brings to life the iconic music from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), offering audiences a thrilling opportunity to experience beloved superhero themes performed live by a full orchestra.
From the triumphant brass of The Avengers to the haunting rhythms of Black Panther and the cosmic energy of Guardians of the Galaxy, this concert captures the emotional and heroic journey of the Marvel characters as never before.
Each piece has been carefully selected to reflect the spirit and emotion of its cinematic counterpart, from heroic melodies to poignant moments. These memorable scores, crafted by some of the world’s most acclaimed film composers, have become cultural landmarks, helping define the global success of the Marvel franchise.
The program will feature orchestral suites and themes from: The Avengers and Avengers: Endgame, Iron Man, Black Panther, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Guardians of the Galaxy, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Captain America, X-Men and More. Marvel movies have been at the forefront of popular culture over the past two decades, changing expectations in film and how audiences would typically interact with storylines, characters, and even current social issues.
From an original comic book company in the 1930s to a now global entertainment force comes one of the most successful movie franchises ever: the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel films have created a commercially unparalleled history. “Avengers: Endgame”, in 2019, smashed box-office records
Conductor Vanich Potavanich, a familiar name in the Thai classical music scene, will lead the RBSO through this powerful and dynamic program. Known for his versatility and creative programming, Maestro Vanich brings both precision and passion to the podium.
This concert is ideal for audiences of all ages — whether you’re a longtime Marvel fan or someone who simply loves orchestral music, “Music from Marvel Studios” promises an evening of high-impact entertainment, nostalgia, and musical artistry.
UNESCO and Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (Public Organization), a national agency promoting Thai craftsmanship, have joined hands with ICONCRAFT—Thailand’s hub of creative innovation–to launch the campaign, “UNESCO x SACIT x ICONCRAFT: A Celebration of Thai Artisans and Creative Cities.”
This nationwide initiative celebrates the cultural legacy of Thai textile traditions from the seven UNESCO Creative Cities across Thailand. These heritage textiles, crafted by national master artisans, are reimagined into contemporary fashion pieces by seven of Thailand’s top design houses, as well as the prestigious brand SIRIVANNAVARI, founded by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.
The event, attended by UNESCO Director – General Audrey Azoulay, on her first official visit to Thailand, launches a long-term collaboration to empower cultural entrepreneurs, promote sustainable innovation, and inspire youth to pursue careers in the creative economy. It also reinforces Thailand’s commitment to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which includes more than 350 cities worldwide. Thailand’s recognized Creative Cities–Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Sukhothai, Phetchaburi, Chiang Rai, and Suphanburi–serve as the foundation for this initiative and their distinctive cultural assets inspire the designs on display.
Event Highlights
At the heart of this exhibition is a collaboration between seven top-tier Thai fashion brands and local artisan groups, with each designer creating two exclusive outfits inspired by a different Creative City—14 looks in total:
ATELIER PICHITA – Designs inspired by the Tai Lue textiles of the Tai Lue Weaving Group by Master Dokkaew from Chiang Rai
THEATRE – Designs using Black Tai (Thai Song Dam) textiles from Ban Don Manow Thai Song Dam Weaving Group in Suphanburi
CHAI GOLD LABEL – Designs drawing from Northern-style batik by Rak Batik Group in Chiang Mai
HOOK’S BY PRAPAKAS – Designs based on hand-painted batik from Ying Batik Paint Group in Phuket
WISHARAWISH – Designs using the intricately patterned Pha Lai Yang fabric by Phusa Pha Lai Yang in Phetchaburi
PYVET – Designs crafted from Porcupine Pattern Pha Jok by Suntaree Thai Textile in Sukhothai
JANESUDA – Designs showcasing brightly colored batik from Marionsiam in Bangkok
SIRIVANNAVARI x Chansoma Collaboration
Among the standout creations are two exclusive clutch bags, personally designed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. Crafted from Kaew Ching Duang silk–a textile symbolizing prosperity and harmony–these pieces were handwoven by nationally honoured master artisan Weeratham Taragoonngernthai, founder of the Chansoma brand in Surin Province. Embroidered with exquisite detail, each clutch is a one-of-a-kind creation, specially designed for this occasion.
Royal Ensemble Exhibition
Another event highlight is the first-ever public exhibition in Thailand of eight Royal Thai Ensembles worn by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, curated by the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. The designs, by Tirapan Wannarat, founder of the Tirapan fashion house and Thailand’s 2019 National Artist in Visual Arts (Fashion Design), will be on display from June 25–29 at ICONLUXE AVENUE, M Floor, ICONSIAM.
Featured ensembles include:
Thai Ruean Ton Dress – Crafted from brocade silk with Chao Fa motifs, inspired by traditional teakwood houses in Dusit Palace
Thai Chitralada Dress – A formal silk outfit with standing collar and embroidered white floral patterns
Thai Amarin Dress – A pink silk pha sin featuring golden rose vines, historically associated with the birthday of King Rama V
Event Schedule
The special collection will debut at Crafts Bangkok 2025, from 18–22 June 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, before its formal launch on 25 June at ICONSIAM.
Alongside the textile showcase and royal attire exhibition, visitors will have the rare opportunity to purchase or bid on selected pieces. A special auction will include the limited-edition silk clutches by SIRIVANNAVARI. Proceeds will support a UNESCO initiative to expand access to creative education for young people in Thailand’s Creative Cities.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Thai cultural heritage, admire the craftsmanship of local masters, and witness how creativity continues to shape Thailand’s future.
BANGKOK — The President of the Court of Appeal for Specialized Cases has ordered the transfer of a legal dispute involving Nestlé and the Mahagitsiri family from Minburi Civil Court to the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court (IPIT Court), according to a ruling read on June 20, 2025.
The case, numbered Black Case No. Phor 571/2568, was moved following Nestlé’s petition to determine proper jurisdiction between the two courts. The transfer suggests the dispute involves intellectual property or trade-related matters, though specific details of the legal conflict were not disclosed.
Despite the ongoing litigation, Nestlé emphasized that its Nescafé operations in Thailand remain unaffected. The multinational food and beverage company confirmed it continues all business activities including manufacturing, toll-manufacturing, importing, and distribution of Nescafé products across the country.
The Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court
“Nescafé products are now available with the same great taste and high quality,” the company stated, seeking to reassure consumers about product availability and standards.
Nestlé also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Thai market, highlighting plans to continue local coffee bean procurement from Thai farmers – a practice maintained over several years.
The company indicated it will sustain investments in Thailand to benefit various stakeholders including customers, consumers, employees, farmers, and business partners.
The case transfer to the specialized IP court indicates the dispute likely involves trademark, patent, or other intellectual property issues, though the company has not disclosed the nature of its disagreement with the Mahagitsiri family.
Nestlé’s emphasis on business continuity suggests the company is working to minimize any potential market disruption while the legal proceedings unfold in the appropriate specialized jurisdiction.
B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited have joined forces with Sasin School of Management, Chulalongkorn University, to launch the B.Grimm Executive Partnership Program—an advanced leadership development initiative for senior executives navigating the complexities of the digital era and driving social impact.
Rooted in the company’s long-standing vision of “Doing Business with Compassion,” the program integrates cutting-edge business strategy, digital and AI transformation, organizational leadership, and social engagement, including B.Grimm’s ongoing support for the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO).
Dr. Harald Link, Group President of B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, shared in his opening remarks: “True leadership is about passing forward what is good to the next generation—not just managing success in the present.”
The initiative is one of the four flagship learning programs hosted by the B.Grimm Excellence Centre, which include:
1.B.Grimm Business Pioneer Program – for young business talents (in partnership with Chulalongkorn Business School)
2.B.Grimm Business Professional Program – for mid-level professionals
3.B.Grimm Positive Leadership Program – emphasizing compassionate leadership (in partnership with NIDA)
4.B.Grimm Executive Partnership Program – for senior executives (in partnership with Sasin)
Mr. Kriangkrai Yooyeun, Executive Vice President – People Partnership, remarked: “At B.Grimm, we believe that people development is the true engine of sustainable growth. Compassion, innovation, and shared prosperity are at the heart of how we lead—today and into the future.”
FILE - K-pop band BTS's member Jin salutes after being discharged from a mandatory military service outside of an army base in Yeoncheon, South Korea, Wednesday, June 12, 2024. (Im Byung-shik/Yonhap via AP, File)
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — It’s official. All seven members of the massively popular K-pop group BTS have completed South Korea’s mandatory military service.
Rapper Suga was the last of the bandmates to be released Wednesday from his duties as a social service agent, an alternative to serving in the military that he reportedly chose due to a shoulder injury.
This marks the official return of all seven members from their enlistment duties.
The six others, RM, V, Jimin, Jung Kook, Jin and j-hope, served in the army.
Earlier this month, four members of BTS — RM, V, Jimin and Jung Kook — were discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service.
FILE – K-pop band BTS members RM, bottom, and V react after being discharged from a mandatory military service in Chuncheon, South Korea, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)
BTS is expected to reunite later this year. Ahead of that highly anticipated homecoming, here’s what you need to know about the group.
The rise of BTS
BTS — short for Bangtan Sonyeondan, or “Bulletproof Boy Scouts” in Korean — debuted in June 2013 under the company Big Hit Entertainment, now known as HYBE. The seven-member group consists of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook.
The group launched in 2013 with the hip-hop heavy single album “2 Cool 4 Skool,” releasing three full-length projects before really gaining momentum with their 2016 album “Wings.”
Their global breakthrough came in 2017 when “DNA” entered the Billboard Hot 100, making BTS the first Korean boy band to achieve such a feat. The song’s success was followed by a performance at the American Music Awards, further fueling their international fan base.
The band is largely credited with bringing K-pop to the international stage, and with good reason.
FILE – BTS arrives at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Sunday, April 3, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)
Across their discography, BTS broke boundaries and records: In 2020, they released the five-time platinum “Dynamite,” their first all-English single, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 — a first for an all-South Korean musical act.
At the height of their popularity, BTS was not only the biggest K-pop group on the planet, but the biggest boy band overall.
Global appeal
In fact, they’ve been certified platinum many times over, according to The Recording Industry Association of America. Their platinum successes include:
— 2018’s “Mic Drop;”
— 2020’s “Map of the Soul: 7,” “Love Yourself: Answer,” and “Idol;”
— 2021’s “Be,” and song of the summer “Butter;”
— and high-profile collaborations “My Universe” with Coldplay and “Boy With Luv” featuring Halsey.
BTS has also been nominated for five Grammy Awards. Their first, for “Dynamite” in the best pop duo/group performance category, marked the first time a K-pop act received a Grammy nod.
As their global popularity grew, the septet also became international advocates for social justice.
Their 2018 address to the United Nations General Assembly launched the “Love Myself” campaign in partnership with UNICEF to combat violence, abuse and bullying while promoting self-esteem among young people.
FILE – Members of the K-pop supergroup BTS from left, V, Jungkook, Jimin, RM, Jin, J-Hope, and Suga join White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during the daily briefing at the White House, Tuesday, May 31, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
The group’s commitment to human rights activism continued in 2020 when they donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement, denouncing racial discrimination and violence. Their fan base, known the world over as ARMY, responded by matching the donation within 24 hours.
Their dual impact on music and social causes culminated in 2022 when they were invited to the White House to discuss anti-Asian hate crimes with President Joe Biden.
BTS’ mandatory military service stirs debate
In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required by law to perform 18-21 months of military service under a conscription system meant to deter aggression from rival North Korea.
The law gives special exemptions to athletes, classical and traditional musicians, and ballet and other dancers if they have obtained top prizes in certain competitions and are assessed to have enhanced national prestige.
K-pop stars and other entertainers aren’t subject to such privileges.
However, in 2020, BTS postponed their service until age 30 after South Korea’s National Assembly revised its Military Service Act, allowing K-pop stars to delay their enlistment until age 30.
There was heated public debate in 2022 over whether to offer special exemptions of mandatory military service for BTS members, until the group’s management agency announced in October 2022 that all seven members would fulfill their duties.
FILE – K-pop band BTS’s member J-Hope reacts after being discharged from a mandatory military service outside of an army base in Wonju, South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)
Break allows time for solo projects
BTS tiered their enlistments, giving ample time for its members to focus on solo projects while the group was on a break.
Jin released two EPs, “Happy” in 2024 and “Echo” in May of this year. Suga dropped his debut solo album, “D-Day,” in 2023 under his moniker Agust D.
Also in 2024, RM released his second solo album, the elastic, experimental “Right Place, Wrong Person”, and j-hope released an EP, “Hope on the Street Vol. 1.” Earlier this year, j-hope embarked on his first solo tour.
Cambodian tourists pose for a group photo before staging a symbolic demonstration at Ta Kwai Temple in Bak Dai subdistrict, Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province on June 18, 2025.
BANGKOK — Thai military officials have clarified the circumstances surrounding a viral video showing approximately 30 Cambodian tourists singing and recording videos at the Ta Kwai Temple in Bak Dai subdistrict, Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province.
The incident has sparked criticism amid rising nationalist tensions between the two countries following a brief military clash on March 28.
On June 20, Army spokesman Colonel Winthai Suwari explained that the Army received reports from Suranaree Command that the incident occurred on June 18 at approximately 1:00 p.m. The Cambodian tourist group was observed taking photographs, recording videos, and singing within the premises. Thai military personnel promptly intervened in a courteous and appropriate manner, engaging in diplomatic dialogue to foster mutual understanding.
“We explained that such symbolic expressions in the area were inconsistent with the guidelines and mutual agreements previously discussed by both sides. We requested cooperation to refrain from such behavior. The Cambodian tourist group showed understanding and voluntarily ceased their activities before departing the area, spending approximately 20 minutes at the site,” the Army spokesman said.
He added that the incident concluded peacefully, with discussions conducted in a positive atmosphere consistent with the cooperative framework upheld by both sides. In accordance with the bilateral agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, Ta Kwai Temple area permits the deployment of unarmed military personnel to facilitate services for civilians visiting the historical site.
Meanwhile, a video clip circulated showing an incident at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, on June 19 at approximately 10:00 a.m. A Cambodian man brought about 15 Buddhist monks and other Cambodians to block the entrance gate to the temple in a symbolic demonstration. They told Thai people they would not be allowed to enter or cross the GPS marker.
Screenshot from a video clip showing an incident at Ta Muen Thom Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, on June 19, 2025.
This prompted Thai military personnel and administrative officials stationed at the location to immediately intervene and warn them to stop this action. Cambodian authorities also joined in issuing warnings, causing the group to immediately return to the Cambodian side.
Both Ta Kwai Temple and Ta Muen Thom Temple are part of four disputed areas that Cambodia has submitted to the International Court of Justice. The other two disputed sites are Ta Muen Tot Temple in Surin province and the Emerald Triangle area in Ubon Ratchathani province. Cambodia seeks a ruling that all four areas belong to Cambodia.
However, Thailand has declared it does not accept the ICJ’s jurisdiction. Technically, the court can only make rulings when Thailand first acknowledges the court’s jurisdiction, as these areas have never been subject to ICJ proceedings before.
