Showing 1 - 10 of 25
Not even the penguins were spared
Roger Crutchley, Published on 28/12/2025
» Well, we've just about slithered our way through the Year of the Snake. Suffice to say, 2025 wasn't much fun. At least the previous year we had the "Happy Hippo" which kept us vaguely amused in a daft sort of way.
Diamonds are forever; Lisa of Blackpink isn't.
News, Saritdet Marukatat, Published on 20/10/2025
» The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has hired superstar Lisa -- Lalisa Manobal -- as a tourism ambassador for 12 months. The move clearly illustrates the country's attempt to regain the tourist momentum, which has been lost in recent months.
Singers who inspire the plant kingdom
Roger Crutchley, Published on 16/03/2025
» In last week's item about Thailand's talented Blackpink singer Lisa I failed to mention that Chiang Mai University researchers have named a newly discovered flower after her. It is of the custard apple variety and scientifically named Friesodielsia lalisae.
The art of choosing the right words
Roger Crutchley, Published on 09/03/2025
» The word "diplomacy" has been making frequent appearances on newspaper pages in recent days and unless you have been in hibernation there is no need to explain why.
Thailand-South Korea dual narratives
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 03/12/2024
» Thailand-South Korea relations are paradoxical. The countries share a dynamic that boasts both heroic achievements and glaring challenges. While their cultural and economic ties have progressed over the decades, they are black-eyed by labour and immigration issues. Solving these irritating issues can elevate friendship and unleash the potential of bilateral cooperation.
Stadium must live on
Oped, Editorial, Published on 23/11/2024
» Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong's new plan to turn the Supachalasai National Stadium into a concert and sports venue has sparked hope that the ageing structure -- which will mark its 84th anniversary next year -- will be properly preserved.
Thai-Korea ties: From K-pop to policy
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 06/08/2024
» Thai singer Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal, a member of the phenomenal yet now defunct Blackpink, epitomises the modern Thai-South Korean relationship thanks to her popularity and global appeal.
Bad to good: What kind of year was 2023 for Asia?
Oped, Curtis S Chin & Jose B Collazo, Published on 28/12/2023
» As 2023 departs, and 2024 -- and soon, the lunar Year of the Dragon -- arrives, we once again highlight the winners and losers of the year gone by in Asia.
Soft power sells best when not force-fed
Arusa Pisuthipan, Published on 07/08/2023
» South Korea knows how to sell its products. Apart from K-entertainment, the country has also popularised K-merchandise through pop culture. From fried chicken and ramyeon cup noodles to egg drop sandwiches and soju, instant coffee and dietary supplements, we have seen countless products from South Korea in series and movies successfully create a huge customer base in Thailand.
Tourism needs a Plan B to hit its target
News, Saritdet Marukatat, Published on 17/07/2023
» Thailand's key economic driver has cruised past the first six months but it could see a big speed bump ahead on the road to year's end.