Famous American Movies That Used Thailand as a Location
Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Lights, Camera, Location! Famous Movies That Used Thailand as a Location

Famous American Movies That Used Thailand as a Location 1

If you’re itching to travel again, you’re probably thinking of what to put on your bucket list as early as now. Lots of travel guides are available on the internet, but if you’re also a movie geek, there’s another way you can discover a place to put in your itinerary — to find movies set in the country you’re going to.

Thailand, for example, is no stranger to being the film location of many international movies and TV series. Just recently, Mike White, director of “The White Lotus,” said the third season of the hit HBO anthology will be shot in Thailand.

While we are waiting for that to come under the wraps, here are some American movies that were set or had location shoots in the country.

‘The Beach’

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Tilda Swinton, Virginie Ledoyen, Guillaume Canet, and Robert Carlyle, “The Beach” is a 2000 adventure drama film based on a 1996 novel of the same name by Alex Garland.

Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young backpacker looking for a thrill-seeking adventure in Thailand. He meets Daffy (Robert Carlyle) who told him about a beautiful uninhabited island paradise with a hidden beach. Curious about the said beach, Richard sets off on an adventure but later discovers that the “paradise” is hiding a dark secret.

The film was set in Ko Phi Phi Leh, the second-largest island of the Phi Phi Archipelago in the Strait of Malacca covering about 6.6 square kilometers. The archipelago became an instant tourist destination, but as of 2019, the government had to close Maya Bay to visitors due to environmental issues caused by overtourism.


‘Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason’

Starring Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, and Hugh Grant, “Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason” is a 2004 romantic comedy film based on a 1999 novel of the same name by Helen Fielding. It’s the sequel to the 2001 “Bridget Jones's Diary” movie.

The story picks up four weeks after the end of the 2001 film. Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) started dating Mark Darcy (Colin Firth), but her confidence in their relationship was soon shattered after meeting Mark’s assistant — Rebecca Gillies (Jacinda Barrett). Bridget eventually breaks up with Mark and travels to Thailand.

Some scenes from the movie were shot in Soi Cowboy (a red-light street in Bangkok), Koh Panyee (a floating village in Phang Nga Bay), Nai Yang (a beach located in the north-western part of Phuket), and Phuket International Airport.


‘The Hangover Part II’

Starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Ken Jeong, Jeffrey Tambor, Justin Bartha, and Paul Giamatti, “The Hangover Part II” is a 2011 comedy film distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It’s the sequel to the 2009 “The Hangover” film and the second installment in the movie trilogy.

The film tells the story of Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis), and Doug (Justin Bartha) as they travel to Thailand for Stu and his fiancée (Lauren)’s wedding. The mood was ruined during the rehearsal dinner because of Lauren’s father, but Stu later joins his friends for beer and raised a group toast for his and Lauren’s future happiness. The next day, the guys had another bad hangover with no memories of what happened the previous night.

Some of the iconic scene locations in the movie are Chinatown, Soi Cowboy, Chao Phraya River, The Dome at Lebua (a five-star rooftop bar), and the Ancient City of Samut Prakan.

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Bangkok/ The List/ Pop Culture

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025: An Unforgettable Star-Studded Weekend

SS 6Photo by Summer Sonic Bangkok

Feeling the withdrawal symptoms already?

In the sweltering heat of Bangkok, thousands of passionate music lovers converged for the highly anticipated Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025, held at the prestigious Impact Challenger Halls 1-3 from Aug. 23 to 24, 2025.The city was transformed into a dynamic celebration of sound and spirit, embodying the true essence of musical fandom. This two-day festival showcased an incredible lineup of talented artists from around the globe, solidifying its reputation as one of Asia's premier global music festivals, originally founded in Japan. Undoubtedly, the love for music transcends borders and connects us all.

Organized by Bangkok Connect in collaboration with Paradise E&A and Creativeman Productions, with CI Showbiz serving as the Official Local Partner,Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 has elevated the music festival experience in Thailand and Asia. We can't wait for it to return already!

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Merchandise
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

As the gates swung open, enthusiastic concertgoers flocked to the venue. While waiting for the performances to start, they took the opportunity to browse the Merchandise Zone, where they could snag exclusive goodies and cherished memorabilia from their favorite artists. The excitement in the air was palpable, and it wasn’t long before many items completely sold out.

As you enter, you'll find a spacious area between the Mahanakorn Stage and the Thonburi Stage, perfect for eating and shopping during breaks. The venue features a mix of both Thai and international brands, including popular food vendors such as Taco Bell, The Coffee Club, Burger King, Henry Fried Chicken, Bite Bar Burger, Zhanglamian (Chinese noodles), Pad Krapao, kebabs, and Japanese options like Yuzu Sushi and Kogoro Katsu. Also, there were a few Singhabeer stalls around for those who preferred a boozy night.Additionally, there was a Thai massage booth where you could simply relax after all the strolling. Also, free body painting and sticker tattoo booths were available for a bit of fun, and a quirky photobooth byCoke to capture memorable moments with friends and family.

People eagerly congregated around the eye-popping neon sign for “Summer Sonic Bangkok,” with colorful tuk-tuks buzzing around like tropical confetti.  A memory-maker for sure — definitely one for the books.

Day 1: August 23, 2025

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 HITGS
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

For those who easily feel FOMO, it was a tough choice to jump between the two stages because some performances were scheduled at the same time.

As the excitement built, HITGS launched the event with their opening act on the main stage. Their energetic and dynamic performance set the perfect tone for the celebrations. Following this, KIKUO mesmerized the audience, transporting them into a surreal soundscape adorned with vibrant, dream-like visuals that left everyone enchanted.

When the Thai boy bandBUS (Because of you I shine) took the stage, the atmosphere changed completely as fans erupted in cheers. Their medley of hits, including “Boss In The Building,” “Liar,” and “Watch Your Step,” combined with intricate choreography, brought the house down. Following their impressive performance at Summer Sonic Tokyo, this 12-member powerhouse delivered another captivating show that truly stole our hearts.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 BUS
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

The night unfolded with BAND-MAID’siconic attire perfectly complementing their hard-hitting rock sound, as pounding drums and electrifying guitar riffs dominated the evening. Meanwhile, the legendary Japanese duo Creepy Nuts — including DJ Matsunaga, a world-record-holding turntablist, and R-Shitei, a top-class rapper — captivated the audience with their unique beats.

Although concertgoers found it difficult to choose between artists, many rushed between the Mahanakorn Stage and the Thonburi Stage to ensure they didn't miss out on anyone.

Japanese beatboxer SO-SO amazed the crowd at the Thonburi Stage by creating complete soundscapes — drums, basslines, and melodies — you name it. One microphone, but his skill and energy were countless. Korean indie band NELL brought in some soulful music that created a beautiful ambiance as the crowd immersed themselves in the soothing music. The stage closed with NOA, who blended futuristic R&B and pop, switching between Japanese, English, and Korean, showcasing his artistry as a rising Asian star ready for the global stage.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 JVKE
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

JVKE performed at the Mahanakorn Stage, where his hit song "Golden Hour" became a highlight of the show. His performance included creative storylines, seamlessly transitioning between scenes in his bedroom and immersing the audience in his musical world. With his piano melodies and soothing voice, fans raised their phone lights, swaying along to the soulful music. JVKE also sang his popular tracks "Colors," along with the heartfelt lines "This is what falling in love feels like" and "This is what heartbreak feels like," which kept the audience captivated throughout his set.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Snowman
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

One of the most anticipated groups, Snow Man, is a Japanese boy band consisting of nine members. They surprised fans with their colorful, glitzy outfits and electrifying performances, and tried their best to speak in Thai during their show to interact with the fans. Their songs, such as “Tapestry” and “Nine Snow Flash,” marked their first step onto the global stage.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 21 Savage
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

The vibe shifted as Grammy-winning artist21 Savage captivated the audience with his minimalist hip-hop rap and fun humor on stage. Following his standout appearance at Summer Sonic Japan, he further established himself as a dominant force on the international music scene.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Black Eyed Peas
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

What better way to wrap up the night than with the high-energy vibes of the Black Eyed Peas? With the iconic anthem “I Gotta Feeling” setting off a chorus of screams and cheers, and bangers like “Pump It,” “Mamacita,” "The Time (Dirty Bit)," and “Boom Boom Pow” electrifying the crowd, it felt like we were all sharing one giant, pulsing heartbeat. The crowd became one, united in euphoria as they sang along, completely captivated by every repetition of “I Gotta Feeling” — it's like we were all in a nostalgia-filled time machine, and nobody wanted the ride to end.

Day 2: August 24, 2025

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Lamyai Hai Thongkham,
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

The second day kicked off with a bang as Lamyai Hai Thongkham, an electrifying new-generation Thai luk thung singer, took the stage with her dance crew. They delivered a dazzling blend of traditional luk thung and mor lam styles, all wrapped up in a modern style that wowed the crowd. Next up was KickFlip, South Korea’s rookie seven-member boy group, who unleashed their sharp choreography and infectious vocals, bringing an exhilarating energy that lit up the hall. Over on the Thonburi Stage, Timmy Xu and Prome rocked the house with a powerful performance that had everyone on their feet. Then, LET ME KNOW,an up-and-coming Japanese indie-rock band, charmed the audience with their emotive guitar riffs, capturing the essence of “Nostalgic Modern,” a fresh wave that’s sweeping across Asia.

BE:FIRST, the sensational Japanese boy group, had the crowd buzzing with excitement as they unleashed their electrifying dance moves and effortlessly switched between Japanese and English lyrics. After their high-energy set, the up-and-coming Korean rock band The Rose took over, captivating everyone with their catchy indie tunes that had fans singing along and swaying to the beat.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Jeff Satur
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

Then it was time for the Thai sensation, Jeff Satur,who absolutely stole the show with his infectious hits like "Stranger," "Ride or Die," and "Black Tie." As he belted out powerful melodies, fans raised their smartphone lights, transforming the hall into a magical sea of twinkling lights that reflected the sheer joy of the moment.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 CHANYEOL from EXO
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

Japanese girl group BABYMETAL made a comeback this year, bringing their iconic heavy guitar riffs and synchronized choreography after last year's successful gig with BODYSLAM. Meanwhile, CHANYEOLfrom EXO kept the excitement alive with his charming conversation with fans between performances. He performed on smooth tracks like “Ocean Drive” and “Back Again,” leaving everyone enchanted. Additionally, he hinted at an upcoming performance by another EXO member later this year, leaving fans eagerly anticipating more.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Camila Cabello
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

The moment we’d all been buzzing about finally arrived when Camila Cabello strutted onto the stage like the star she is! Making her debut live performance in Thailand, she didn’t just sing — she lit up the night with her powerhouse vocals, sensual Latin dance moves, all while incorporating their huge dynamic prop that seemed to have its own dance party.  But wait, it got even better — she jumped off the stage to connect with fans one-on-one, leaving fans exhilarated with joy. The intro to "Havana" ignited the hall like a firecracker, and when "Señorita" and "Shameless" played, the crowd was swooning in delight. It was a concert in itself.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 Alicia Keys
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

To conclude an unforgettable night, global icon Alicia Keys took the stage with a performance that was nothing short of legendary! She began by playing the piano with her timeless song “If I Ain’t Got You,” and just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, she launched into beloved anthem “Empire State of Mind,” which was beautifully accompanied by stunning visuals of New York’s vibrant streets. Then, just when we thought we had seen it all, the incredible Thai superstar MILLI burst onto the scene during “Girl on Fire,” setting the crowd ablaze with excitement and turning the energy up to eleven. A collaboration that was not in our 2025 Bingo card! Finally, the evening reached its emotional zenith with a heartfelt rendition of “No One,” leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.

Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 LULLABOY
Courtesy of Summer Sonic Bangkok

At the Thonburi Stage, we witnessed a vibrant mix of local and Asian artists who left a lasting impression with their performances. Fresh on the scene, Singapore’s LULLABOY made his debut, charming everyone with his catchy tunes "i don’t like u (but i love u)" and “Someone Like U” — definitely a star in the making! Meanwhile, Thailand’s music scene was on full display, featuring a colorful lineup that included Better Weather & Chaladeen, Guncharlie & Fronc, Prae Chanaa, S2, Nevone & D-Na & Wizzle, Motley Flower, and Defying Decay.Each of these performers delivered powerful shows that highlighted Thailand's unique and rich musical identity.

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Stay updated with Summer Sonic Bangkok; check out their website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), and TikTok.

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Bangkok/ The List/ Pop Culture

Snoopy Lands in Bangkok: A Whimsical Celebration of Friendship and Art

11Photo by River City Bangkok

Forget everything you thought you knew about comic strip nostalgia. This fall, River City Bangkok transforms into a playground of pop culture, high fashion, and immersive art as it hosts "How Do You Do, Snoopy? 75 Years: A Journey of Friendship Through Art." Running from Sept. 6 to Dec. 7, 2025, the exhibition is a tribute to Charles M. Schulz’s beloved beagle and a full-blown cultural experience that reimagines Peanuts™ through the eyes of global artists, designers, and dreamers.

Official poster
Courtesy of River City Bangkok

This showcase marks the first time Thailand welcomes over 100 exclusive works featuring Snoopy and his gang, including rare comic strip manuscripts, animated treasures, and haute couture collaborations. Curated in partnership with ChaTraMue and Peanuts Worldwide, the exhibition is divided into four themed zones that blend nostalgia with innovation.

The 10 Thai artists participating in the show
Courtesy of River City Bangkok

Visitors begin their journey in the Art of Peanuts zone, curated by Daisuke Kusakari of Snoopy Museum Tokyo, where Charles M. Schulz’s original drawings are reinterpreted through Asian artistic traditions like sumi-e and Zen aesthetics. Next, Snoopy in Art features contemporary takes on the beloved beagle by 15 international and 10 Thai artists, including Florentijn Hofman and 2CHOEY, transforming Snoopy into sculptures, paintings, and digital installations.

Fashion lovers will swoon over Snoopy and Belle in Fashion, a display of outfits designed by 24 global fashion houses, from Balenciaga to Swarovski, originally debuted in Paris. And for those with their heads in the stars, Snoopy in Space offers an AR-powered journey through Snoopy’s real-life NASA legacy, including his role as a zero-gravity indicator aboard Artemis I.

Opening event of the exhibition
Courtesy of River City Bangkok

Beyond the gallery walls, Bangkok will be dotted with Snoopy-themed installations and pop-ups, turning the city into a playground of Peanuts nostalgia. Exclusive merchandise, including artist-signed prints and ChaTraMue x Snoopy tea blends, will be available onsite.

Tickets, starting from THB300, are available now via this link. Don’t miss your chance to meet Snoopy like never before.

Check out River City Bangkok’s website, Instagram, and Facebook for more information, and follow Snoopy’s official Instagram for stories you can relate to.

How Do You Do, Snoopy? 75 Years: A Journey of Friendship Through Art.

Location: RCB Galleria 1-2, 2/F, River City Bangkok, Bangkok

Exhibition Period: Sept. 6 to Dec. 7, 2025

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Bangkok/ The List/ Pop Culture

POP MART Opens the World’s Most Stunning POP MART Store at ICONSIAM

20250829 iconsiam pop martPhoto by POP MART Thailand/Instagram

Sawasdee, ICONSIAM!

ICONSIAM, the global landmark along the Chao Phraya River, has partnered with POP MART to open the newest POP MART GLOBAL LANDMARK STORE, the brand’s largest and most visually appealing space in Thailand and in the whole world.

Spanning over 760 square meters on ICONSIAM’s 7th floor and nestled in the breathtaking riverfront setting, the newest POP MART store is the home of POP MART’s first-ever global flagship.

The view of the POP MART store at ICONSIAM
Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

Blending Thai heritage with global pop culture, the space introduces visitors to a design concept rooted in three distinctive aspects of Thai-ness: Water Culture, Traditional Architecture, and Inclusiveness, under the brand philosophy of “Light Up Passion and Bring Joy.” With sweeping curves, reflective surfaces, and fluid structures inspired by the Chao Phraya River, the space is both a retail experience and cultural showcase like no other.

Thai-inspired interiors at the POP MART store in ICONSIAM
Interior of the POP MART store at ICONSIAM | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand
Thai-inspired interiors at the POP MART store in ICONSIAM
Interior of the POP MART store at ICONSIAM | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

At the centerpiece is the MOLLY: Thailand Landmark Store Limited Big Figure — an over four-meter sculpture of MOLLY dressed in an exquisitely elegant Thai Chakkri dress, with a royal headpiece with a fledgling bird, while riding an elephant — a symbol of new beginnings, hope, and of Thailand. She is surrounded by many other iconic and beloved POP MART characters, alongside exclusive collections and limited editions available only in Bangkok.

A MOLLY figurine sitting on an elephant with Thai elements
The MOLLY: Thailand Landmark Store Limited Big Figure | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

Adding to the excitement, ICONSIAM now hosts the world’s first POP MART Caféoutside of China, with food and drink items inspired by the brand’s most beloved characters. A special VIP Zone features the signature Cotton Berry scent — a whimsical blend of cotton candy and wild berries inspired by LABUBU Macaron — designed to capture the essence of nostalgia and childhood memories for every guest.

A Molly figure in the store
Interiors of the POP MART Cafe | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand
A detail of the chairs in the POP MART Cafe
Details of the chairs at the POP MART Cafe | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

The opening of the POP MART flagship in ICONSIAM positions the mall as a trusted partner for the world’s leading brands. Seamlessly uniting art, heritage, innovation, and world-class architecture, ICONSIAM continues to redefine what it means to be a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.

Now open on the banks of Thailand’s legendary Chao Phraya River, the POP MART GLOBAL LANDMARK STORE at ICONSIAM invites visitors to step into a vibrant world of creativity, joy, and imagination.

Follow POP MART Thailand on Instagram.

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Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Rising T-Pop Stars: Thai Boy Group BUS (Because of you, I shine)

BUS Summer Sonic 1Photo by Summer Sonic Bangkok

At the vanguard of this thrilling new wave of Thai music and setting a new benchmark for contemporary Thai Pop (T-Pop), BUS has been leading the movement. BUS, short for "Because of you, I shine," is a rising 12-member Thai boy group that has swiftly taken the T-Pop scene by storm with its infectious energy, charm, and creative approach.

After participating in the Thai reality survival show "789 SURVIVAL," the group BUS officially debuted on Dec. 6, 2023, under Sonray Music and Tada Entertainment. The members of the group are: Alan (Pasawee Sriarunotai), Marckris (Kris Kanchanatip), Khunpol (Pongpol Panyamit), Heart (Chuthiwat Jankane), Jinwook (Kim Jin Wook), Thai (Chayanon Phakthin), Nex (Nattakit Chaemdara), Phutatchai (Tatchai Limpanyakul), Copper (Dechawat Phondechaphiphat), AA (Ashirakorn Suvitayasatian), Jungt (T Boonsermsuwong), and Peemwasu (Wasupon Pornpananurak).

Initially introduced as the 789 DEBUT GROUP, the group has proudly rebranded itself as “Because of you, I shine.” This inspiring name embodies their heartfelt gratitude towards the devoted fans who have championed them from the very start. Their eponymous debut single skyrocketed to viral fame, currently amassing 20 million views on YouTube, while their second song, "Watch Your Step," has attracted 19 million views. Meanwhile, several of their tracks have surpassed 10 million views already.

One of their standout songs, "Transformer," features a darker theme and incorporates heavy choreography. It achieved an impressive milestone by reaching 1 million views on YouTube within 24 hours, making it the most-viewed song by the group in a single day since its release. Currently, they have over 100 million streams on Spotify and have won more than 10 music awards, which is a testament to the talent of the 12 members. The boy band has been featuring a diverse range of musical genres, from emotional ballads to upbeat, energetic tracks.

BUS because of you i shine
Courtesy of BUS

Slowly and steadily, this T-Pop band is capturing the hearts of not just local fans from Gen Y and younger generations, but is also making significant strides on the global stage through their innovative fusion of Thai and Western influences.

This year, BUS made a sensational debut at Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025, delivering an electrifying performance with all 12 members on the Mahanakorn Stage. Their upbeat performance and fresh choreography energized the entire venue, leaving the crowd cheering and everyone thoroughly impressed.

The Beat Asia caught up with BUS at Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025 to talk about their preparations and upcoming performance, their ambitious journey to establish a global presence for T-Pop, and their future aspirations.

BUS
Photo from Instagram/Summer Sonic Bangkok

Can you share with us some insights about your performance at Summer Sonic?

Heart: For Summer Sonic, I think we want to have special songs for both Tokyo and Bangkok. In Tokyo, we had "Michi Teyu Ku" by Fuji Kaze, and in Bangkok, we have ที่เดิม (Thidem)by PUN, as well as "Steal My Girl" by One Direction. Additionally, in Tokyo, we held a brief session where we taught in Japanese.

Which song are you most excited to perform today?

Heart: For me personally, I think it's ที่เดิม (Thidem) because it’s a song that has a slow beat and a relaxed tempo. Before we performed this song, we had to practice our dance moves a lot. I found it quite challenging to control my breath during the performance as well.

How did you prepare for it? The process behind preparing music and practicing choreography together.

Heart: We have a hard talk about it. We have a session where we talk together about how we're gonna use 45 minutes effectively.

Alan:Physically, each of us has been doing our own thing, pursuing our own fitness routine. Also, in our own practice room, we try to dance all out every time we rehearse to train our stamina as well.

Marckris: We have a lot of run-throughs. Not just for this show, but for every show, we rehearse many times. For example, we probably rehearsed three times for Summer Sonic.

Alan:So, we know which show needs more of what. We need more resting time during our talk for our next vocal song.

BUS
Photo from Instagram/Summer Sonic Bangkok

Your debut single, “Because of You, I Shine,” achieved viral success and launched your band’s journey. What is the most memorable moment from the process of preparing for that single?

Khunpol:I think the most challenging part for me is dancing. Especially because we're dealing with new choreography for the first time. It's from Japan, I guess. It’s our first time encountering this style, and we need to learn how to cope with these new dance moves, as we haven't danced in this style before.

Alan: Also, since it's our debut single, it's kind of like the first time that 12 of us are dancing in a choreography together. So it's kind of exciting!

Marckris: We want to create a good first impression for everyone.

Khunpol: Also, in our music video, we had to dance in front of the Emerald Buddha temple. That's very new for me and very hard as well.

We’re curious about your latest album and new tracks, “Bow Wow” and “Boss in the Building.” What’s your inspiration behind it?

Jungt: The first song is called "Bow Wow." It's about a wolf that transforms into a dog because of you. So, it tells the story of going from a fierce hunter to a cute little puppy, all thanks to you. We want our album to have some entertaining songs, and that's why we chose "Bow Wow." It gives a playful, puppy-like vibe. That’s what "Bow Wow" is all about!

And as we come back, with "Boss in the Building," we want to be grown up and have some more songs with attitude. So we chose this song, which expresses how we are fighting ourselves, building ourselves, and transforming to be our new version.

As you look through your album, which particular song holds a special place in your heart?

Jungt:Honestly, I like many songs, because it’s all our songs, but if I had you choose one, I would choose แค่ไหนแค่นั้น "No Matter What”  It’s a chill song. A heartbroken song.

BUS because of you i shine
Photo from Instagram/Summer Sonic Bangkok

What is the most exciting aspect of creating music, and what is the most challenging?

Marckris: The most exciting part of making music is probably expressing our thoughts as a group of 12 members. Also, we just started becoming more involved in the music creation process, and I'm excited about our upcoming singles and albums. I think it will be like more of us in the song. Hopefully, one day, we’ll be able to write our own music.

The most challenging aspect is managing our time. Because actually, all of us are studying, and it’s difficult to coordinate time and schedules for all 12 of us to meet. We have a lot of things going on, too. And we're practicing for a lot of things that we can’t reveal right now. I'm really excited for our upcoming shows and our upcoming singles, and albums.

From your debut to global recognition, BUS has quickly risen to fame. What do you think is the key to your success?

Nex: I'm not sure if we are really that famous. But I think the key to our success lies in having a great backup team. We've been lucky to get many chances to work with amazing people and to have many opportunities to perform on incredible stages. Lastly, our fans, they've always supported us. We really want to thank them and are truly grateful for their role in bringing us to where we are today.

BUS because of you i shine
Photo from Instagram/Summer Sonic Bangkok

How do you see T-Pop evolving in the future, and what role do you hope to play in that evolution?

Alan:For T-Pop evolution, I really hope to see it on a global stage where we can go to many music festivals, including globally renowned music festivals. Because I believe T-Pop has a lot to showcase to the world. And for us, we want to be a part of that evolution where we bring and raise the standard of T-Pop to the global stage.

What piece of advice would you give rising T-Pop stars?

Alan:Okay, when it comes to rising T-Pop stars, I want to emphasize that we’re all on the same team. Let’s work together to bring T-Pop to a global stage. Let's keep raising the standards of T-Pop together. Don't stop the grind, and let’s achieve great things together.

Mark:Enjoy the process. You'll meet a lot of incredible artists along the way, and your hard work will get you somewhere.

BUS because of you i shine
Courtesy of BUS

Lastly, what’s next? Anything in store for the rest of 2025 and early 2026?

Alan:We know what’s coming next, but we're not gonna tell you! (laughs) But, what we can share is that we still have a few music festivals lined up for 2025, along with some countdowns. Also, we're looking forward most to our anniversary event, which is called BUS Day. This year marks our second anniversary, and we’ll have some new and interesting things that you’ve never seen before. That’s all I’m going to say.

As for 2026, we’re still in the planning stages, but we hope to do something big and take BUS further.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fans or the public?

To our BEUS, thank you for the support. It's almost our second year anniversary, and these past one to two years have been an incredible ride. We've accomplished so much together, and I hope we can achieve even more in the future. Ever since we've come back from Summer Sonic Tokyo, I really want to say thank you and express our gratitude for always supporting us. So we really love you guys, and hopefully we'll see you more in the future.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Get to know BUS more and stay updated by following them on Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), YouTube, and TikTok

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Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

From Hardstyle to Hybrid: Together Festival 2025's Genre-Bending Lineup

21Photo by Instagram/ Together Festival

If you're looking for a two-day festival experience that is a little more us and a little less them,Together Festival 2025in Bangkok is the party you can't miss. From September 5 – 6 at the massive BITEC Bangna in Bangkok, this electronic music festival has a lineup that caters to both longtime EDM fans and those craving something fresh, promising a full-on sensory and social experience.

Alan Walker at Together Festival 2024
Instagram/ Together Festival

The festival's strength lies in its musical diversity, offering something for every mood. Get ready to lose yourself to the euphoric energy of mainstage monarchs like Afrojack, or dive deep into melodic trance with the legendary Paul Van Dyk. For a more intense, immersive show with dubstep, the live set from Black Tiger Sex Machine, complete with their signature glowing helmets, is a must-see. And if you prefer something with a harder edge, the high-BPM hardstyle of Sub Zero Project will be there to get your adrenaline pumping.

One set you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the highly anticipated back-to-back (B2B) from internet darlings Baby J and Tye Turner. Their first recorded B2B set at Syber, took the internet by storm with more than 4 million views. This dynamic duo offers a refreshing, genre-defying mix of hip-hop, Jersey club, and house edits, blending viral online trends with global underground sounds.

Highlight from previous Together Festival
Instagram/ Together Festival
Highlight from previous Together Festival
Instagram/ Together Festival

Beyond the music, the festival is a full-blown destination event. Located in the heart of Bangkok, Together Festival 2025 offers the perfect excuse for a vacation in one of the world's most vibrant cities. During the day, you can explore the city's famous street food, breathtaking temples, and bustling markets. At night, you can join a crowd of thousands at BITEC Bangna, a modern venue with state-of-the-art production.

Ultimately, Together Festival is a community gathering. It's where like-minded people come together to celebrate music and culture. Offering a full weekend to dance your heart out, this is one of Bangkok's biggest parties of the year you shouldn’t miss.

Tickets for Together Festival are now available via their website, with options varying from General Admission, VIP, and VVIP tiers. Check out the festival’s Instagram for more information.

Together Festival 2025 Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre: BITEC Fri, September 5 4:00 PM onwards Bangkok’s biggest EDM weekend returns! Together Festival 2025 takes over BITEC on Sep. 5–6 with Afrojack, Paul Van Dyk, Sub Zero Project, Black Tiger Sex Machine, and more.

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Bangkok/ The List/ Pop Culture

Bangkok International Film Festival Returns to Reignite Thai Cinema

22

After nearly two decades of silence, the Bangkok International Film Festival (BKKIFF) is making a bold comeback, and it’s not just about screening films, but also reshaping Thailand’s cinematic identity and positioning Bangkok as Southeast Asia’s next major film hub.

Official poster of Courtesy of BKKIFF 2025
Courtesy of BKKIFF

Running from Sept. 27 to Oct. 15, 2025, BKKIFF 2025 marks a new chapter for the festival, which last held its edition in 2009. This revival is spearheaded by the Department of Cultural Promotion (DCP) under the Ministry of Culture and the newly formed Thailand Creative Culture Agency (THACCA), with a clear mission: to elevate Thai cinema on the global stage and foster international collaboration.

The festival’s theme, "Power in Collaboration," reflects its ambition to unite government, private sector, artists, and audiences in a shared cultural movement. “The film industry is one of the core elements of Thailand’s soft power,” said Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, Chairman of the BKKIFF Organizing Committee. “It powerfully conveys our stories, ways of life, culture, and creativity to global audiences”.

BKKIFF 2025 promises to be the largest film festival in Southeast Asia, with over 200 films from more than 40 countries. The lineup spans features, shorts, documentaries, and animations, with a strong emphasis on recent releases, those that premiered within the past year, to qualify. The festival will also host masterclasses, panel discussions, and a robust film market, including over50 booths from Thai producers and industry stakeholders.

BKKIFF and government officials
Courtesy of BKKIFF

A major highlight is the Asian and Thai Project Pitching sessions, offering a total prize pool of US$25,000 to support emerging filmmakers. The festival’s opening ceremony on Sept. 29, 2025 at ICONSIAM’s Pinnacle Hall will feature the world premiere of Tee Yod 3 (Ghost Whisperer 3), the latest installment in Thailand’s highest-grossing horror franchise.

Screenings will take place across Bangkok’s leading cinemas, including Major Cineplex, SF Cinema, House Samyan, and Lido Connect. For Gen Z and younger millennials, BKKIFF may be a new name, but its return signals a renewed commitment to storytelling, creativity, and cultural exchange.

With over 100 short film submissions received within days of its open call, the excitement is palpable.

Check out BKKIFF’s website and follow their Instagram for more information.

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Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

A Decade of Wonder: Wonderfruit Unveils their 2025 Guide to Wonder

20250814 WonderfruitPhoto by Wonderfruit

Wonderfruit, Thailand’s biggest immersive and trailblazing celebration of culture, art, music, wellness, and nature, is celebrating its 10th year anniversary this December 11 to 15, 2025, at The Fields, Siam Country Club, in Pattaya, Chonburi.

The festival makes its return with a lineup as bold as its vision—bringing together international headliners, diverse regional and Thai talents, chef’s table experiences, Thai Molam legends, wellness rituals, workshops, talks, and immersive art experiences at highly conceptualized venues built with circular design and sustainability at its core.

This anniversary year continues Wonderfruit’s decade-long exploration of Mind, Nature, and Sound, acting as both a cultural playground and a catalyst for new ideas. They’ve just released their second Guide to Wonder, offering a glimpse into what’s to come for this year’s edition.

The Second Guide to Wonder: Wonderfruit 2025

Flags being raised
Photo from Website/Wonderfruit

Music Designed for Well-being

Through “Sonic Minds,” Wonderfruit is teaming up with MSCTY_Studio to create and curate soundscapes designed to improve how we feel. These will be revealed through live performances by Shook, Esla Hewitt, Scanner, and more and surprise installations in the most unexpected places, like in the forest, restrooms, or bridges.

Molam World to the Global Stage

Molam World, known for its celebration of Northeastern Thai music, food, and art, is returning with performances from Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, Rungfa Kulachai, Gilles Peterson, and Ustad Noor Bakhsh. This year, joining the Molam Bus is the Molam Theatre, a multi-purpose venue designed by PO-D Architects.

40+ Venues Come Alive

Beloved venues like The Quarry, Forbidden Fruit, Solar Village, Enfold, and an expanded Living Village welcome acts like FKJ, Kerala Dust, Colleen ‘Cosmo’ Murphy, Hatis Noit & Orly Anan, múm, Shubostar, A Guy Called Gerald, Pearson Sound, Tristan Perich & ensemble 0, Vanishing Twin, Dawn of Midi, DOTT, JPBS x DuckUnit, Red-o, Minyo Crusaders and much more.

Making their debut this year is Baan Bardo, a kinetic maze with a multi-dimensional curation by Wit Pimkanchanapong, featuring performances, guided meditations, and Nepali Charya Nritya dance workshops.

A lakeside venue with the sunset
Photo from Website/Wonderfruit

Thoughtful and Interactive Art Fills the Fields

With over 20 installations, Wonderfruit aims to involve art that encourages human connection. From Ab Rogers Design’s Social Interventions to Pinaree Sanpitak’s crafted steel and stone tables and Microtopia by TeaRoom, Wonderers are invited to slow down, connect, and reflect.

Wellness with Roots

The Wonderness program offers 100+ unique workshops, rituals, and ceremonies—from quantum sound healing with Zen monks to Amazonian Sacred Hapé rituals—inviting guests to a variety of ways to feel and live better.

Chef’s Tables & Culinary Stages

Michelin-star concepts, a Mediterranean-Thai fusion feast, and multi-sensory dining experiences are taking over the Wonder Kitchen and Open kitchen, while Pa Chan’s Life’s Market offers food, crafts, and culinary workshops from the five regions of Thailand.

Founder ‘Pete’ Pranitan Phornprapha reflected on the 10th Anniversary of Wonderfruit by sharing, “Reaching ten years of Wonderfruit is a moment of real gratitude and celebration for us. It’s thanks to the shared energy, creativity, and care of our community—our Wonderers that we’ve come this far.”

He added, “We’re entering a new chapter—one that moves beyond the idea of a once-a-year gathering. Wonderfruit is becoming a year-round cultural platform rooted in creativity and collaboration. We’re evolving The Fields into a living, working space for learning, experimentation and circular systems—from growing our own food, rewilding the land and hosting various cultural expressions that connect people to mind, sound, and nature.”

Wonderfruit is opening its next ticket salefor 48 hoursfrom September 2 to 4, 2025, at 6PM. Tickets will be first-come, first-served, with limited capacity.

Visit the Wonderfruit website here, and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates.

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Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Cult-Favorite Lifestyle Brand OH!SOME Opens First Thai Outlet in Bangkok

OHSOME THAILAND Samyan Mitrtown Store OpeningPhoto by OH!SOME Thailand/Instagram

More cute stuff incoming!

OH!SOME, the cult-favorite one-stop trendy shop from Singapore and Malaysia, has finally landed in Bangkok — bringing its signature blend of curated finds, immersive shopping experiences, and social media-ready moments to Samyan Mitrtown.

Known for its brightly lit signature and vibrant storefront, Bangkok’s OH!SOME store brings a touch of magical winter charm with a whimsical ice and snow world. The store also doubles as a hot photo destination, already attracting droves of people to share their experiences.

OH!SOME Samyan Mitrtown Bangkok yellow storefront
Instagram/ OH!SOME Thailand

Known for its brightly lit and vibrant storefront, Bangkok’s OH!SOME store brings a touch of magical winter charm with a whimsical ice and snow world. The store also doubles as a hot photo destination, already attracting droves of people to share their experiences.

Interiors of a lifestyle store
Courtesy of OH!SOME Thailand
Interiors of a store featuring Mickey Mouse and Stitch
Courtesy of OH!SOME Thailand

Shoppers will find a mix of globally sourced products, exclusive IP collaborations, and everyday essentials with a cute twist. Some of their highlights include the Disney-themed collections — the seaside-inspired Stitch collection, picnic-themed Winnie the Pooh collection, and the upcoming denim-inspired Mickey Mouse collection.

OH!SOME also offers a wide range of on-trend items across categories such as beauty and skincare, fragrances, stationery, collectibles, snacks, and home décor. Practical yet full of personality, each product is designed to add a touch of joy and style to everyday life.

To celebrate its launch in Thailand, OH!SOME is hosting the “Ladder of Luck Challenge” from Aug. 1 to 15, 2025, where visitors can roll jumbo dice and move across the board for a chance to win vouchers. More interactive experiences, such as DIY workshops, fan meet events, and IP-themed activities, will be arriving soon in Thailand!

Skincare items on display in a lifestyle store
Courtesy of OH!SOME Thailand
More lifestyle items on display
Courtesy of OH!SOME Thailand

With over 130 stores open in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and beyond, OH!SOME has quickly become a go-to destination for young trendsetters. Its Bangkok debut coincided with OH!SOME’s first anniversary last Aug. 1, with more local stores set to open real soon!

For more information and updates, visit OH!SOME’s website here, and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Bangkok/ The List/ Pop Culture

Filipino Artist TRNZ Brings Dreamlike Displacement to Bangkok this July

20250722 TRNZPhoto by TRNZ/Instagram

Filipino artist TRNZ has unveiled “Everything Was Where It Wasn’t,” a solo exhibition now open at the Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok in River City Bangkok. Running until Aug. 24, 2025 and curated by Michael Sena, the series of new paintings explores the fragile architecture of everyday life — where logic loosens, time folds in on itself, and the familiar quietly slips into the familiar.

TRNZ’s signature aesthetic — clean lines and visual clarity inspired by Japanese animation and meticulous storytelling — delivers a poetic meditation on solitude and the emotional blurs of modern living. The works don’t ask for attention, but there is quiet persistence in them that invites stillness. Their emotional tone isn’t loud, but restrained — and in that restraint, the weight of each piece is felt with enduring intensity.

A girl looking sideways with a pensive look on her face
A look into one of TRNZ's paintings for "Everything Was Where It Wasn't" | Photo from Website/Bangkok Art City

Each scene feels suspended in time: where objects repeat, memories fragment, and meaning drifts in the gentle distortion of daydreams. Here, TRNZ’s characters do not speak; they pause. They are a mirror of ourselves as we try to navigate through the universal condition of modern life, where we are alone, yet profoundly connected in our isolation.

With “Everything Was Where It Wasn’t,” TRNZ gives a vision of life that is both gentle and unyielding. It is a portrait of our emotional world, rendered with remarkable clarity and sensitivity. TRNZ also invites us into this shared inner landscape, a space without linear time, where forms repeat and meaning slides, where everything is just slightly out of space.

Paradoxically, everything is exactly where it wasn’t and yet where we recognize ourselves most clearly.

“Everything Was Where It Wasn’t” is currently on view at Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok (Room 201-206, 2nd Floor, River City Bangkok) from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 11 AM to 7 PM, until Aug. 24, 2025.

Two boys with a sofa and a row of frames behind them
A look into one of TRNZ's paintings for "Everything Was Where It Wasn't" | Photo from Website/Bangkok Art City
A person looking to the left with a shirt full of gloves
A look into one of TRNZ's paintings for "Everything Was Where It Wasn't" | Photo from Website/Bangkok Art City

Visit the Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok website here and follow their Facebook and Instagram pages. Follow TRNZ on Instagram.

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Bangkok/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

POP MART’s DIMOO is the 'Special Friend of China-Thailand’s Golden Jubilee'

20250715 DIMOO THPhoto by POP MART Thailand

POP MART’s beloved character DIMOO is more than just a pop culture icon — he’s now the “Special Friend of China-Thailand’s Golden Jubilee”!

On June 30, 2025, the POP MART character was officially awarded the title during a ceremony hosted by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy.

The reception was attended by Mr. Piyapak Sricharoen, Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, Ms. Chang Yumeng, Minister Counselor at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand, and Ms. Chen Xiaoyun, Vice President of POP MART International Group.

This honor marks POP MART’s creative homage to China and Thailand’s 50 years of friendship and diplomatic relations, and it came with a surprise: a limited-edition DIMOO figurine designed with a Thai baby elephant on its head, traditional attire, and a lotus flame, representing Chinese wisdom and the friendship between the two nations.

The figurine takes elements from Thailand and China, symbolizing their friendship
The limited edition DIMOO figurine | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

During the ceremony, DIMOO, dressed in Thai costume, performed a dance featuring both Chinese and Thai cultural elements. Artist Ayan Deng also made a special appearance at the session, where many fans brought their collected DIMOO figurines to be autographed.

Artist Ayan Deng taking a photo with a DIMOO figurine
Artist Ayan Deng | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand
A closer look into the limited edition DIMOO figurine
The Limited-Edition DIMOO | Photo from Instagram/POP MART Thailand

Adding to the appeal, POP MART also teamed up with China Eastern Airlines to launch a special edition aircraft designed with DIMOO’s China-Thailand 50th anniversary design. The plane made its first flight on July 4, connecting multiple cities in China with Bangkok.

This collaboration marks a fresh new take on cultural diplomacy — using art toys and pop culture icons to connect people across cultures. In this celebration of 50 years of China-Thailand friendship, DIMOO serves not only as a jubilee figure, but also as a visual and emotional symbol of friendship.

Moving forward, POP MART will continue to build an expressive, upward-reaching brand that fosters meaningful cultural connections and shares the joy of art toy culture with the world.

Follow POP MART Thailand on Instagram.

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