Rescuers, forensic officers, and medical personnel inspect the body of a Dutch man at a hotel room in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya on June 22, 2025.
AYUTTHAYA — A 54-year-old Dutch tourist was found dead in his hotel room in Thailand’s ancient capital city of Ayutthaya on Sunday afternoon, just as he was scheduled to check out after a three-day stay.
The deceased, identified as Ronald, was discovered by hotel housekeeping staff after he failed to check out on time. Staff used a master key to enter his room, where they found him dead.
Police from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Station responded to the scene on Sunday, June 22, along with forensic investigators, medical personnel from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital, and representatives from a charitable foundation.
The victim was found shirtless, wearing only black shorts, lying beside his bed. Investigators noted a severe laceration on his left arm that exposed bone, with blood stains found throughout the room including on the floor, bed, and in the bathroom bathtub.
A bedroom in a Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya hotel where a housekeeper found the body of a Dutch tourist on the ground beside the bed on June 22, 2025.
Authorities discovered several items during their investigation:
The victim’s mobile phone placed on the bathtub edge
A fruit knife approximately 10 centimeters long found in the drained bathtub
On the dressing table: passport, medication, yellow powder, and a letter written in English
A half-empty bottle of alcohol and soft drinks near the body
Based on initial investigations and witness interviews, police believe the deceased may have been under stress and harmed himself after consuming alcohol. This assessment was supported by the discovery of the English-language letter.
Security camera footage from before and after the incident showed no other individuals entering or leaving the victim’s room, according to preliminary reviews.
The body has been sent to the Forensic Science Institute in Pathum Thani Province for a detailed autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Dutch embassy officials have been notified of the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together the final hours of the Dutch national’s stay in the historic city of Ayutthaya.
President Donald Trump speaks from the East Room of the White House in Washington, Saturday, June 21, 2025, after the U.S. military struck three Iranian nuclear and military sites, directly joining Israel's effort to decapitate the country's nuclear program, as Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth listen. (Carlos Barria/Pool via AP)
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States attacked three sites in Iran early Sunday, inserting itself into Israel’s war aimed at destroying the country’s nuclear program in a risky gambit to weaken a longtime foe that prompted fears of a wider regional conflict as Tehran accused Washington of launching “a dangerous war.”
U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s key nuclear sites were “completely and fully obliterated” in an address to the nation from the White House. There was no independent damage assessment.
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran confirmed that attacks took place on its Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz sites, but it insisted that its nuclear program will not be stopped. Iran and the U.N. nuclear watchdog said there were no immediate signs of radioactive contamination at the three locations following the strikes.
It was not clear whether the U.S. would continue attacking Iran alongside its ally Israel, which has been engaged in a war with Iran for nine days. Trump acted without congressional authorization, and he warned that there would be additional strikes if Tehran retaliated against U.S. forces.
“There will either be peace or there will be tragedy for Iran,” he said.
This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows the Fordo enrichment facility in Iran on Jan. 24, 2025. (Maxar Technologies via AP)
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said Washington had “betrayed diplomacy” with the military strikes in support of Israel, and said now “the U.S. has itself launched a dangerous war against Iran.”
“The Islamic Republic of Iran reserves its right to resist with full force against U.S. military aggression and the crimes committed by this rogue regime, and to defend Iran’s security and national interests,” the ministry said in a lengthy statement.
Hours after the American attacks, Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard said it launched a barrage of 40 missiles at Israel, including its Khorramshahr-4, which can carry multiple warheads. Israeli authorities reported that more than 80 people suffered mostly minor injuries, and that there were reports of damage in the cities of Haifa and Tel Aviv, and along the coast.
Following the Iranian barrage, Israel’s military said it had “swiftly neutralized” the Iranian missile launchers that had fired, and that it had begun a series of strikes toward military targets in western Iran.
Parnia Rahmanian, 13, lies unconscious in a hospital bed following Israeli strike that targeted her neighborhood, as a nurse, second right, and a relative look on, in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, June 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
The US helped Israel strike Iran’s toughest nuclear site
Iran has maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, and U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed that Tehran is not actively pursuing a bomb. However, Trump and Israeli leaders have argued that Iran could quickly assemble a nuclear weapon, making it an imminent threat.
The decision to directly involve the U.S. in the war comes after more than a week of strikes by Israel that significantly degraded Iran’s air defenses and offensive missile capabilities, and damaged its nuclear enrichment facilities. But U.S. and Israeli officials have said American B-2 stealth bombers and the 30,000-pound (13,500-kilogram) bunker-buster bomb that only they have been configured to carry offered the best chance of destroying heavily fortified sites connected to the Iranian nuclear program buried deep underground.
Trump appears to have made the calculation — at the prodding of Israeli officials and many Republican lawmakers — that Israel’s operation had softened the ground and presented a perhaps unparalleled opportunity to set back Iran’s nuclear program, perhaps permanently.
“We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan,” Trump said in a post on social media, using common alternate spellings for two of the sites. “All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home.”
Trump added in a later post: “This is an HISTORIC MOMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ISRAEL, AND THE WORLD. IRAN MUST NOW AGREE TO END THIS WAR. THANK YOU!”
President Donald Trump speaks from the East Room of the White House in Washington, Saturday, June 21, 2025, after the U.S. military struck three Iranian nuclear and military sites, directly joining Israel’s effort to decapitate the country’s nuclear program. (Carlos Barria/Pool via AP)
Israel announced Sunday that it had closed its airspace to both inbound and outbound flights in the wake of the U.S. attacks.
The White House and Pentagon did not immediately elaborate on the operation. U.S. military leaders are scheduled to provide a briefing at 8 a.m. Eastern.
The attack used bunker-buster bombs on Iran’s Fordo nuclear fuel enrichment plant that is built deep into a mountain, a U.S. official said. The weapons are designed to penetrate the ground before exploding. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations.
In addition, U.S. submarines launched about 30 Tomahawk missiles, according to another U.S. official who also spoke on condition of anonymity.
The International Atomic Energy Agency wrote on X that there has been “no increase in off-site radiation levels” after the strikes but that it would continue to monitor the situation.
Trump’s turn to strikes departs from some previous statements
The decision to attack was a risky one for Trump, who won the White House partially on the promise of keeping America out of costly foreign conflicts and scoffed at the value of American interventionism.
But Trump also vowed that he would not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, and he had initially hoped that the threat of force would bring the country’s leaders to give up its nuclear program peacefully.
For months, Trump said he was dedicated to a diplomatic push to persuade Iran to give up its nuclear ambitions. And he twice — in April and again in late May — persuaded Netanyahu to hold off on military action against Iran and give diplomacy more time.
After Israel began striking Iran, Trump went from publicly expressing hope that the moment could be a “second chance” for Iran to make a deal to delivering explicit threats on Khamenei and making calls for Tehran’s unconditional surrender.
He has bristled at criticism from some supporters who have suggested that further U.S. involvement would be a betrayal to those who were drawn to his promise to end U.S. involvement in expensive and endless wars.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s decision to attack in a video message directed at the American president.
“Your bold decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities, with the awesome and righteous might of the United States, will change history,” he said. Netanyahu said the U.S. “has done what no other country on earth could do.”
Fears of a broader war
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the strikes a “dangerous escalation,” as world leaders began chiming in with calls for diplomacy.
“There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control — with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region and the world,” he said in a statement.
Firefighters, rescue workers and military gather at the site of a direct missile strike launched from Iran in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Sunday, June 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, who had threatened to resume attacks on U.S. vessels in the Red Sea if the Trump administration joined Israel’s military campaign, called on other Muslim nations to form “one front against the Zionist-American arrogance.”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had warned the United States on Wednesday that strikes targeting the Islamic Republic will “result in irreparable damage for them.” And Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei declared “any American intervention would be a recipe for an all-out war in the region.”
The Israeli military said Saturday it was preparing for the possibility of a lengthy war, while Iran’s foreign minister warned before the U.S. attack that American military involvement “would be very, very dangerous for everyone.”
Israeli strikes on Iran have killed at least 865 people and wounded 3,396 others, according to the Washington-based group Human Rights Activists. The group said of those dead, it identified 363 civilians and 215 security force personnel.
Trump’s decision for direct U.S. military intervention comes after his administration made an unsuccessful two-month push — including with high-level, direct negotiations with the Iranians — aimed at persuading Tehran to curb its nuclear program.
During his previous administration, Trump pulled the U.S. unilaterally out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, prompting Tehran to begin enriching uranium to higher levels and restrict the access of IAEA inspectors to its facilities.
Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, talks to Commander of the 2nd Army Area Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, left, during a meeting with soldiers at Ubonratchathani province, northeast of Bangkok, Friday, June 20, 2025. (Government Spokesman Office via AP)
To say that Thailand is entering treacherous waters is an understatement. Depending on how the Paetongtarn Shinawatra government and people handle the situation in the coming days and weeks, Thailand could see its relationship with its neighbour, Cambodia, regressing by decades, or could face a military coup – or both.
Ultranationalists and anti-government protest leaders announced earlier this week that their major protest, which is expected to be protracted, starts on June 28 onwards.
The Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is now a sitting duck PM after the controversial leaked audio clip of her conversation with the former Cambodian PM and Senate President and the withdrawal of the Bhumjai Thai Party, the second biggest government party, from the coalition.
As of today, June 22, the PM is adamant that she will neither resign nor dissolve the House and is working hard to bring in defecting MPs from some opposition party to shore up the ailing administration.
It’s understandable why many went ballistic upon hearing the 17-minute clip because the Thai PM spoke more like a little girl, almost begging “uncle” Hun Sen to help more because ultranationalist Thais and anti-Thaksinites are telling her to become PM in Cambodia instead. Paetoongtarn almost committed a huge blunder by saying the “popular” Second Army Region Commander Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang was on the “opposite side” of us, (Paetong and Hun Sen). Paetongtarn’s public expression of contrition was clearly not accepted by ultranationalist conservatives and they now want her out, or a military coup to oust her, and a tougher stance against Cambodia on the border disputes and economic front.
In that damning leaked audio clip that shook the PM and the Pheu Thai government more than an 8-Richter earthquake could, Hun Sen clearly stated that if Thailand reopens its checkpoints as usual, Cambodia is ready to follow through and adjust within 5 hours.
Patriotic Thais who still possess sound reasoning and common sense should demand that the Thai government reopen all the borders as normal to see if Hun Sen will keep his word because both nations stand to lose more than they will gain by escalating the tit-for-tat border rows.
Last night, the 2nd Army Area closed the Sai Taku border trade checkpoint in Buriram’s Ban Kruat district, “for public safety.”
The closure was signed by Lt Gen Boonsin.
This morning, June 22, Khmer Times reports that Cambodian PM Hun Manet has announced the decision to “permanently close two border checkpoints in Oddar Meanchey province in response to, what he described as, the Thai army’s repeated unilateral decisions to shut down access points without prior consultation or coordination with Cambodia.”
This was followed just hours after by Boonsin announcing that he will close two more borders soon. It seems the PM has little or no control now over the army along the Thai-Cambodia border, and a Chinese Xinhua news correspondent, Lin Hao, noted on X following the news item from Khaosod English that “The Cambodian measure was announced by the [Cambodian] PM. The Thai measure was announced by a frontline army commander.”
The adjustments and closures of checkpoints by both parties have almost no benefit, are unnecessary and detrimental to both countries’ economy and diplomatic relations.
Innocent traders and farmers on both sides are now affected with the Thai side, for example, unable to move 30 tonnes of fruits into Cambodia, according to the news report yesterday, while the Thai side tightened the export of Cambodian tapioca into Thailand and casinos on the Cambodian side of the border are also being affected. Overall, it only worsens the situation between the two countries by day and puts Thailand at risk of extra-constitutional powers interfering in the end.
I understand that the current “lame-duck” government may no longer be able to control the border military, particularly, but we must try to preserve the democratic system and help defuse the escalating Thai-Cambodian conflict and the risk of another military coup in Thailand.
With this big picture in mind, Thais who may hate Paetongtarn to the guts or regard her as a traitor should step back and reflect, and look at the overall picture of possible scenarios, and help defuse both bombs first.
As for the childish bickering about who started the Thai-Cambodia border conflicts first, as Hun Sen said in the clip (claiming Thailand started it), I believe it’s pointless to argue about who began it and where the true genesis lies. What we can do and should do now is to demand and try to reduce the conditions for deeper conflicts, otherwise, it will play right into the hands of pro-coup demonstrators who favour extra-constitutional means of solving a political crisis.
At this crucial time, there are more important matters to take into consideration than whether PM Paetongtarn survives or not and that is to ensure that the democratic system is intact and that we don’t unnecessarily deepen the Thai-Cambodia conflict.
Tourist police raid a bar in Koh Phangan's Pantip Market area, arresting two Myanmar employees on June 19, 2025.
KOH PHANGAN — A Myanmar woman broke down in tears during a police raid on a cannabis shop that was illegally serving shisha to tourists, fearing deportation after being arrested by the same officers before.
Tourist police on Koh Phangan raided a cannabis shop in the Pantip Market area Thursday evening following complaints that the establishment was secretly doubling as a bar selling hookah or shisha to visiting tourists.
During the raid, officers found two Myanmar women working at the shop. Sandar, 41, was serving water and hookah to customers inside the establishment, while Thandar, 28, was handling customer service and cash transactions at the counter. Both possessed valid passports and work permits as laborers valid until March 31, 2026.
Tourist police raid a bar in Koh Phangan’s Pantip Market area, arresting two Myanmar employees on June 19, 2025.
Emotional Arrest Scene
Sandar burst into tears during the inspection, as she had previously been arrested by the same police unit and feared being sent back to Myanmar. Officers had to console her before proceeding with questioning.
Sandar admitted to working at the shop for four months, earning 3,000 baht per week. Her duties included lighting charcoal for hookah, preparing shisha liquid in containers for customers, serving water and food, and cleaning the shop.
Thandar confessed to working as a cashier, taking orders and handling cash transactions. She said hookah prices varied based on flavor and quantity chosen by customers. She claimed never to have met the Russian shop owner but transferred daily sales revenue to his account. The shop earned 10,000-15,000 baht ($305-460) per day from customers.
Koh Phangan tourist police raid a Pantip Market bar secretly selling hookah or shisha to tourists.
Charges and Evidence
Both women were charged with working beyond their permitted scope (as laborers rather than service staff) and concealing the sale of goods that had not cleared customs procedures.
Police seized evidence including:23 packets of shisha liquid, 5 cans of shisha liquid, 8 rectangular cans of shisha liquid, 7 hookah machines, and 13 hookah hoses.
The workers have been sent to investigators who will file charges against the Russian shop owner for prosecution.
Police raid a luxury villa in Chonburi, discovering 22 South Koreans running an illegal lending operation, June 21, 2025.
CHONBURI — What began as a rescue mission to save an alleged kidnapping victim turned into a major bust when Chonburi police raided a luxury villa on Saturday and discovered 21 South Koreans and one Chinese operating an international illegal lending ring.
The operation was launched after the South Korean Embassy in Thailand contacted authorities reporting that a South Korean national had been kidnapped and was being held at a villa in Na Kluea subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.
At 2.30 p.m. on June 21, more than 50 officers from tourist police and Bang Lamung police station surrounded the two-story detached house, which sits on over 90 square meters and is equipped with CCTV cameras around the perimeter.
When police identified themselves and requested to search the premises, more than 20 South Koreans inside panicked and fled in different directions. During the chaotic escape, one South Korean man jumped from the second floor, suffering critical injuries when he hit the ground. The injured man, identified as Mr. Jae, 30, was rushed to hospital by emergency responders.
Three other South Koreans who fled through the back of the house were pursued and apprehended by police. In total, 21 suspects, including one Chinese, were detained and brought back for questioning.
High-Tech Operation Uncovered
Inside the villa, police discovered what appeared to be a sophisticated operation center containing:
Over 30 desktop computers and laptops
More than 40 mobile phones
2 internet routers
Police raid a luxury villa in Chonburi, discovering 22 South Koreans running an illegal lending operation, June 21, 2025.
All equipment was seized as evidence, and forensic officers from Chonburi’s Evidence Division 2 collected DNA samples and fingerprints from the devices.
Police Tourist Division Senior Sergeant Major Tor-lap Tinamaat explained that the South Korean suspects claimed the computer equipment and mobile phones were used to run an illegal lending business targeting victims in South Korea. They used the luxury villa as their operational headquarters, conducting business through internet-based phone calls via TP LINK systems.
Police found a Korean-language whiteboard detailing investment scams promising returns up to 500 million won ($365,000 USD) and romance scam messages used to deceive victims into transferring money. Two South Koreans were found to have entered Thailand illegally.
Police raid a luxury villa in Chonburi, discovering 22 South Koreans running an illegal lending operation, June 21, 2025.
Investigations suggest the group recently relocated from the Cambodia border area after government pressure, establishing their base inside Thailand. Initially, police have charged the suspects with being members of a criminal organization with illegal objectives, commonly known as forming a criminal gang.
Neighbor Reveals Disturbing Details
A local resident, 26-year-old Man, provided crucial information about the villa’s activities. He revealed that South Koreans and Chinese nationals had been renting the property for over four months.
“I often heard people arguing and screaming, sounds like someone being tortured,” Man told police. “At first I didn’t know what was going on in that house, but today suddenly I saw Koreans jumping over to my side of the property and running away frantically until police came to investigate.”
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.
