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A South Korean influencer goes viral in Pattaya with a bizarre “Kappa” haircut that has locals laughing and livestreamers watching. A Russian teenager is caught vandalising a Pattaya overpass with graffiti. In Hua Hin, live military-grade explosives discovered next to a bin spark a bomb squad emergency. A British tourist is violently assaulted in Chiang Mai over a disputed karaoke bill, raising serious safety concerns. At Phuket Airport, an American man is caught smuggling over 6kg of heroin in Coffee Mate boxes. And in a bold economic move, Thailand unveils a crypto tourism sandbox to welcome digital-savvy travellers and revamp its post-pandemic economy. South Korean Influencer Sparks Buzz in Pattaya with Eccentric 'Kappa' Haircut A South Korean influencer went viral in Thailand after getting a bizarre "Kappa" haircut—based on a Japanese folklore creature—at Sixteen Barbershop in Pattaya. The barbershop’s Facebook post showcasing his eccentric style and playful antics quickly gained traction among Thai netizens. The influencer, who was livestreaming the entire event, danced, joked, and brought joy to everyone in the shop. After tipping the barber 300 baht, he returned the next day seeking rainbow hair drying but was redirected to another salon. His quirky public dancing further captivated locals and tourists across Pattaya. Russian Teen Nabbed for Graffiti on Pattaya Pier Overpass A 16-year-old Russian teen named Dobrynia was caught red-handed spray-painting graffiti on Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier Overpass in the early hours of July 17. Pattaya authorities seized six spray cans and his motorbike, warning that he’ll face full legal consequences under the Cleanliness and Orderliness Act. In addition to a possible 10,000-baht fine, he and his guardians must clean the vandalised area. Officials condemned the act as destruction of public property, reinforcing Pattaya’s firm stance on preserving public spaces as part of a broader city clean-up campaign. Live Grenade and C4 Found by Bin in Hua Hin Triggers Bomb Squad Response Hua Hin was rocked on July 16 after a resident discovered live military explosives—including C4, an anti-personnel mine, and a fragmentation grenade—dumped next to a rubbish bin. Police quickly cordoned off the area, and a bomb squad safely removed the deadly devices. Around 100 corroded bullets were also found. Authorities have launched a full investigation, reviewing CCTV and seeking public help. Though no injuries occurred, officials warned the situation could have been catastrophic. The incident has left residents shaken, with police stressing the seriousness of the threat and the urgency of finding those responsible. British Tourist Beaten in Chiang Mai Over Disputed Karaoke Bill Nine karaoke bar workers in Chiang Mai were arrested after a viral video showed them assaulting 27-year-old British tourist Cameron James Wilkins over a disputed 20,000-baht bill. Wilkins alleged he was overcharged and refused to pay, prompting the attack outside the venue. The suspects restrained and searched him, drawing widespread outrage. Locals say the bar, recently under new ownership, targets foreign tourists and has a history of pricing disputes. Police are investigating both the assault and potential overcharging, amid broader concerns about tourist safety in nightlife venues. American Caught Smuggling 6.6kg of Heroin at Phuket Airport American national Tyler Trong Luong, 61, was arrested at Phuket International Airport on July 16 for attempting to smuggle 6.6kg of heroin hidden in Coffee Mate creamer boxes. Caught during a sting coordinated by Thai and international law enforcement, Luong was en route to Doha, with final destinations in Brussels and France. He claimed he was unknowingly transporting the drugs for a French acquaintance. Authorities are expanding their investigation to identify any accomplices. With a street value of over 30 million baht, the bust marks a major success in Thailand’s fight against international drug trafficking. Thailand Taps Crypto to Attract Digital-Savvy Tourists Thailand is launching a crypto sandbox to let tourists spend digital assets directly in baht, aiming to boost tourism and economic recovery. Tourists can convert crypto via licensed operators under strict KYC rules, with spending caps set at 50,000 baht—or 500,000 for verified merchants. The SEC and Bank of Thailand hope this move will attract digital-savvy travellers and inject new capital. With Asia’s highest crypto ownership and tourism still below pre-COVID levels, officials believe the initiative could position Thailand as a global digital asset hub. Public consultation runs until August 13.

A 61-year-old mute British tourist in a wheelchair was robbed in his Pattaya hotel room after being lured back by two women and one transgender suspect. The trio allegedly stole over 12,500 baht in cash before fleeing, leaving the man traumatised and alone. Unable to speak, he alerted police by typing messages on his phone. The incident occurred around midnight on 15 July in Central Pattaya. Authorities are now urgently searching for the suspects and appealing to the public for information.

A foreign resident in Rawai, Phuket, is under investigation after allegedly burying a dog alive, leaving only its head above ground. The shocking act, captured on video and posted on 16 July, sparked widespread outrage online. Local officials and residents rescued the weak and barely conscious dog, now under the care of the Soi Dog Foundation. Authorities have identified the suspect and are pursuing legal action. The case has ignited intense public condemnation and renewed calls for stronger protections against animal cruelty in Thailand.

Police raided a major illegal baccarat den in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district, arresting 20 gamblers and seizing chips worth over 274 million baht. The group included Thai, Chinese, and Myanmar nationals. Some gamblers were injured trying to flee through windows. Officers also confiscated tables, monitors, cash, cards, and other equipment. All suspects confessed to the charges and were taken to Phetkasem police station. The raid followed an intelligence operation that uncovered the site’s conversion into a large-scale gambling venue.

After 16 years on the run, 47-year-old Woraporn was arrested in Nakhon Pathom for her alleged role in the 2009 murder of her aunt, Boonthing, following a family land dispute. The victim’s body was found buried near her home with signs of blunt force trauma. While Woraporn’s mother was arrested soon after the murder, Woraporn fled and lived across Thailand under the radar. She was captured after returning to live with her child. She claims limited involvement, saying she only tried to help her mother during a heated altercation.

Thailand is urgently tackling toxic pollution from Myanmar that’s contaminating northern rivers and threatening public health. On July 15, the Cabinet approved a sweeping plan to protect affected areas like the Kok and Sai rivers, with expanded testing, free health screenings, and aid for impacted farmers and businesses. The country is also pushing Myanmar diplomatically to stop harmful mining practices. A coordinated national response will include ecosystem restoration and international cooperation, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Locals now face a prolonged fight to restore clean water and safety.

Thailand will open bidding for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail project in Q3 2026, as part of its Thai-Chinese infrastructure partnership. The State Railway of Thailand aims to attract private investment under a Public-Private Partnership model for system installation and operations. A recent public consultation sought input to align the project with national needs and sustainable growth. Thai firms with rail experience are eligible to bid, while foreign companies, especially Chinese investors, are encouraged to partner locally given the railway’s direct link to China.

A 26-year-old Thai transwoman tourist was arrested in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, after walking topless along the beach, triggering backlash from locals and social media. Despite identifying as female, her Thai passport lists her as male, and Sri Lankan law prohibits toplessness for women. She pleaded guilty to indecent exposure and causing distress, receiving a six-week suspended jail sentence. She’ll avoid prison unless she reoffends within five years. The incident stirred debate in the conservative beach town, highlighting tensions over gender identity and public decency laws.

A disabled British tourist was robbed in a Pattaya hotel by a group of suspects who remain at large. After 16 years on the run, a woman was arrested for her role in her aunt’s murder. Thailand is tackling toxic pollution flowing from Myanmar that threatens public health. The government plans to open bidding for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail project in 2026. A Thai transwoman tourist was arrested in Sri Lanka for a controversial beach stunt. Chiang Mai was named Asia’s best city for 2025, with Bangkok ranking third. Outrage erupted in Phuket after a dog was allegedly buried alive, and police raided a major illegal gambling den in Bangkok, seizing chips worth over 270 million baht. Chiang Mai tops Asia's best cities as Bangkok grabs 3rd place Chiang Mai has been ranked the No. 1 city in Asia in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, scoring 91.94 and celebrated for its friendly people, mountain scenery, vibrant food scene, ancient temples like Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, bustling night markets, and ethical elephant experiences. Bangkok also earned a top-tier position in the same ranking, coming in third in Asia (and fourth globally) with a score of 91.34, noted for its dynamic energy, cultural landmarks, world‑class cuisine, lively street markets, and nightlife. Topless Thai transwoman busted for beach stunt in Sri Lanka A 26‑year‑old Thai trans woman was arrested at Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka on July 14 after walking topless along a popular surf beach, prompting complaints of indecent exposure and public disturbance. She pled guilty in court, receiving a six‑week jail sentence suspended for five years, meaning she won't serve time unless she repeats the offence. Thailand opens bidding for Bangkok-Nong Khai high-speed rail 2026 Thailand’s State Railway (SRT) plans to launch the bidding process in Q3 2026 for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high‑speed rail project, moving forward through a public‑private partnership involving both Thai and international firms. The first phase from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima aims for operation by 2029 with civil works already nearly half complete, while phase two toward Nong Khai is in final planning and expected to wrap up by 2031. Thailand fights back as Myanmar pollution threatens health crisis Thailand has launched an emergency response after heavy metals from Myanmar’s upstream mining were found contaminating the Kok and Sai rivers, posing serious health and environmental risks in northern Thailand. On July 15, the Cabinet endorsed National Human Rights Commission recommendations to protect affected communities and deployed teams to address and contain the pollution before it spreads into the wider Mekong River basin. Woman captured after 16 years on the run for aunt's murder A 47‑year‑old woman named Woraporn was arrested on July 15 in Nakhon Pathom after evading arrest for over 16 years in connection with her aunt Boonthing’s 2009 murder and concealment of her body in Pathum Thani following a family inheritance dispute. During interrogation she admitted involvement in a physical altercation but claimed her aunt was fatally struck by her mother, while she fled and only later learned of the burial and warrant. Disabled British Tourist Robbed by the Trio in Pattaya Hotel Room A 61‑year‑old mute British tourist in a wheelchair was robbed of approximately 6,000 baht in cash by three individuals—two Thai women and a transgender woman—whom he invited from Pattaya Beach to his Central Pattaya hotel room; they disappeared during his shower on July 16, taking his money and leaving him stranded in the dark. Pattaya police are reviewing CCTV footage, have collected an ID card from one suspect, and are actively searching for the trio to bring them to justice under Thai law. Foreigner Buries Dog Alive in Shocking Phuket Incident A foreign man in Rawai, Phuket, allegedly buried his Siberian husky alive in his backyard—leaving only its head exposed—until neighbours heard its cries and alerted authorities. Rescue teams from Soi Dog Foundation and local officials dug out the husky and two other dogs from the property; the buried dog is now receiving care and the owner is under police investigation for animal cruelty. Gamblers arrested, B274m in chips seized during Bangkok raid Twenty gamblers were arrested in a raid on a clandestine gambling den in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district, where police seized gambling chips worth over 274 million baht. The operation, which included Baccarat tables and cash alongside the chips, highlights intensified law enforcement efforts against large-scale illegal gambling rings in the city.

Six senior monks in Thailand have been defrocked and several more implicated after a 35-year-old woman, nicknamed “Miss Golf” or “Sika Kor”, allegedly lured them into sexual relationships and blackmailed them—with authorities uncovering over 80,000 compromising images and substantial transfers of temple funds totaling millions of baht. The scandal has prompted police raids on major temples, sparked a nationwide investigation into monastic discipline and financial transparency, and led to calls for urgent legal reforms to protect the credibility of Buddhism in Thailand.

Thailand’s government has scrapped its proposed 300 baht tourist tax for air travellers—originally intended to fund tourism infrastructure and insurance—fearing it could deter visitors and harm the weakened tourism sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated the revenue boost would be greater if tourists spent freely on goods and services instead, so the fee has been abandoned to encourage higher visitor spending.

A brief confrontation between Thai and Cambodian troops at the disputed Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province led to the evacuation of tourists and a temporary ban on new visits to the site. The incident has heightened tensions in the ongoing border dispute between the two nations.

A recent NIDA poll conducted between 4–7 July reveals that 42.4% of Thais believe suspended PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra should resign and 39.9% want the House dissolved for fresh elections, while just 15% favour her remaining in post. The survey also shows 32.8% support former coup‑leader General Prayut Chan‑o‑cha as the next prime minister, dwarfing support for establishment figures like Chaikasem Nitisiri (10.9%) and Anutin Charnvirakul (11.5%).

Expats and foreign visitors have strongly criticised Pattaya’s new beach smoking ban—particularly at Dongtan/Jomtien beach—slamming it as ineffective and frustrating, with tourists reportedly ignoring the restrictions and vowing not to return if enforcement continues. Despite officials setting up designated smoking zones in public toilets behind the beach and warning that penalties could include fines of up to THB 100,000 or a year’s imprisonment, many feel it’s a pointless move that penalises smokers without changing behaviours.

A Thai man was arrested on 15 July after CCTV footage circulated showing him physically assaulting two autistic individuals—a woman and her seven-year-old nephew—while they waited for a bus outside a Chiang Mai shopping mall, allegedly provoked by barking stray dogs. Despite initial police reluctance to record the complaint, public outrage and pressure from a volunteer group led to his detention; the suspect, named Ek, admitted being intoxicated and offered 5,000 baht in compensation.