Video News

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on The Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. Highlights include a Russian tourist's bizarre standoff with Phuket police and the South Korean president facing impeachment. 1. Russian Tourist in Underwear Standoff with Phuket Police A Russian tourist in his underwear caused chaos in Phuket by resisting police with shadowboxing. The viral incident, viewed over 200,000 times, remains under investigation. 2. Pattaya Spa Fire Quickly Contained A fire broke out in a Pattaya spa, causing panic but no injuries. Authorities suspect an electrical short circuit and stress maintenance. 3. Nigerian Man Arrested for Bangkok Prostitution Ad Thai police arrested a Nigerian tourist for advertising sexual services online. Authorities are probing possible connections to a larger network. 4. Indian Tourist Robbed of Necklace in Pattaya Masked robbers on a motorcycle stole a 210,000-baht necklace from an Indian tourist in Pattaya. Police are analyzing CCTV footage for leads. 5. Thai Woman Caught Smuggling Cocaine in Japan Japanese authorities arrested a Thai woman for smuggling cocaine worth 8 million baht at Kansai Airport. Investigations into accomplices are ongoing. 6. 40,000 Brits Relocate to Thailand for Sun and Culture Thailand’s warm climate and vibrant lifestyle attract over 40,000 British expats, boosted by long-term residency visas and sunny beaches. 7. Malaysia Opens AI Office to Lead Southeast Asia Malaysia launched a national AI office to drive innovation, forming partnerships with tech giants and focusing on ethical AI development. 8. Vietnamese Officials Accused of Assault in New Zealand Two Vietnamese officials accused of assaulting staff in New Zealand left before charges. Victims call for justice despite legal hurdles. 9. China Halts Loans to Cambodia in Strategic Shift China approved no loans to Cambodia in 2024, reflecting caution in investments. Cambodia secured funding from other creditors instead. 10. South Korean President Faces Impeachment President Yoon faces impeachment for declaring martial law. Accused of power abuse, he vows to fight as protests and investigations mount.

Temperatures Rise Across Thailand, Heavy Rain Persists in the South Thailand is experiencing a slight rise in temperatures by 1–2°C, particularly in the north and northeast, while the south continues to face heavy rain, especially in provinces like Songkhla, Pattani, and Yala. Morning temperatures in the upper regions remain cool, with lows around 19–22°C and highs reaching 33°C. Southern thunderstorms cover 40% of the area, with rough seas and waves exceeding 2 meters in stormy zones. Bangkok expects partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 23–34°C. The weather reflects a weakening high-pressure system across the region.

Police Raid Bangkok Hotel Party, Arrest Over 120 in Underwear Thai police raided a party in Room 2001 of the S31 Hotel in Bangkok’s Watthana district, arresting over 120 attendees, including Thais and foreigners, early Sunday morning. Most guests, primarily gay men, were scantily clad and suspected of using drugs like ecstasy and ketamine. Police found illicit substances and conducted drug tests, revealing 66 individuals with drug residue and 31 caught in possession. However, 27 tested negative and were released. The event, previously flagged for similar activity, drew professionals, including doctors, highlighting the persistence of such unauthorized gatherings in Bangkok.

Naked Russian Man Rescued After Perilous Swim Between Pattaya and Koh Larn A naked Russian tourist was rescued on December 8 after attempting to swim from Pattaya Beach to Koh Larn, a dangerous 6-kilometer journey. Spotted by speedboat driver Mr. Pracharat near the Hin Kong buoy channel, the man was exhausted, injured from seawater exposure, and adrift. He was given a life jacket, rehydrated, and transported to the Koh Larn District Office. Calm sea currents likely saved him from further danger. The tourist admitted he had started the swim the night before but was swept off course. The incident highlights the importance of safety and respecting nature’s risks.

Finnish Man Falls to Death from 11th Floor in Pattaya A 52-year-old Finnish man, Tero Sakari Karppinen, tragically fell to his death from the 11th floor of a condominium on Pattaya Second Road in the early hours of December 10. The incident, reported to police and rescue teams, left witnesses shocked. Security initially mistook the fall for debris until discovering the body. Police are investigating whether the fall was accidental or intentional, with an autopsy pending to determine the cause. The family must provide documentation to claim the body for funeral arrangements.

Man Attacks Neighbor with Machete in Ang Thong Province A 50-year-old man named Jerd attacked his neighbor, Nongnuch, with a machete in Ang Thong Province, injuring her legs and arms. The assault occurred on December 9 at Village 4 in Ongkharak. A passerby, Uncle Auan, intervened, fending off the attacker and escorting the injured woman to the hospital. Police subdued Jerd, who showed no signs of drug use during tests. Nongnuch has since been discharged and filed a complaint, ensuring legal action against her assailant. The incident is under police investigation.

Thai Police Crackdown on Pornographic Content Production Thai authorities launched “Rabbit Slaughter: Suppressing Sex Creators,” targeting a global network producing and distributing pornographic content involving Thai women. Arrests included Thai nationals and foreigners from the UK, Russia, Germany, and Serbia, charged with commercial production and distribution of explicit material. Authorities allege the network exploited Thailand’s tourism image, filming in iconic locations like tuk-tuks. The crackdown uncovered child pornography, sparking further investigations into possible human trafficking. Arrests occurred in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Suvarnabhumi, with suspects confessing during interrogations.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, presented by Alex on Good Morning Thailand. Highlights include a Thai police crackdown on pornographic content and the evacuation of thousands due to the Kanlaon volcano eruption. 1. Thai Police Crackdown on Pornographic Content Authorities launched a major operation targeting a global network producing explicit content in Thailand. Arrests include both Thai nationals and foreigners, uncovering child pornography and links to human trafficking. 2. Man Attacks Neighbour with Machete in Ang Thong A 50-year-old man attacked his neighbour with a machete, leaving her injured. A passerby intervened, helping the victim to safety. Police arrested the assailant, and legal proceedings are ongoing. 3. Finnish Man Falls to Death in Pattaya A Finnish man died after falling from the 11th floor of a condominium in Pattaya. Authorities are investigating the incident, with an autopsy pending to determine if it was accidental or intentional. 4. Naked Russian Tourist Rescued After Perilous Swim A Russian tourist was rescued while attempting to swim from Pattaya Beach to Koh Larn. Found adrift and injured, he admitted to being swept off course overnight. 5. Bangkok Hotel Party Raid Leads to Over 120 Arrests Police raided a hotel party in Bangkok, arresting over 120 attendees for suspected drug use. Tests confirmed 66 positive cases, with further investigations underway. 6. Rising Temperatures and Heavy Rain in Thailand Temperatures across northern Thailand rose slightly, while southern provinces face heavy rain and thunderstorms. Bangkok experienced mild conditions with temperatures reaching 34°C. 7. Java Floods and Landslides Leave 10 Dead, Thousands Displaced Torrential rains in West Java caused floods and landslides, killing 10 and displacing over 3,000 residents. Rescue operations continue as the region grapples with widespread damage. 8. Malaysia’s Ex-PM Mahathir Denies Treachery Claims Former PM Mahathir Mohamad refuted accusations over a 2018 decision on disputed islets with Singapore, calling the inquiry politically motivated amid ongoing rivalry with PM Anwar Ibrahim. 9. Thai Deportation of Cambodian Activists Sparks Outrage Thailand deported six Cambodian activists despite warnings of potential harm. Critics accuse Thailand of ignoring human rights obligations to maintain political ties with Cambodia. 10. Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Forces Thousands to Evacuate The Kanlaon volcano in the Philippines erupted, prompting the evacuation of 87,000 residents. Authorities raised the alert level, warning of a possible hazardous eruption in the coming weeks.

Thailand's VAT Proposal Stirs Economic Concerns A proposed VAT hike from 7% to 15% in Thailand alarmed the restaurant and hotel sectors, though it has reportedly been shelved. Thai Restaurant Business Association leader Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch warned the tax would force closures or raise food prices by 20–25%. He proposed raising the VAT registration threshold and allowing tax deductions for raw materials to help SMEs. Comparisons to Europe’s higher VAT rates were criticized due to Thailand’s lower incomes. Thai Hotels Association President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun also flagged the hike’s impact on fragile recovery and spending, suggesting a gradual increase to 10%. Clear communication and policies to boost spending are urgently needed.

Drunk Police Officer Causes Chaos in Pattaya A drunk police officer, Sergeant Sunthorn Hemphan, caused chaos in Pattaya by firing gunshots into the air, leading to a standoff with over 50 officers. The incident occurred in Soi Khao Noi, where the intoxicated officer barricaded himself in his home after discharging his weapon. Nearby residents were evacuated as police subdued and disarmed him after a 30-minute standoff. Known for erratic behavior fueled by alcohol and cannabis, the officer had a history of firing his weapon and causing disturbances. Sunthorn remains in custody as authorities consider disciplinary and legal actions.

Reckless Tourist Behavior in Phuket Draws Criticism A video of a tourist in Phuket standing beside a moving car while drinking beer and smoking a cigarette near Patong Beach has sparked criticism online. The clip shows the tourist passing the beer inside the car and re-entering after finishing his cigarette. Social media users questioned the driver's awareness and responsibility, with many calling for penalties for both the driver and the tourist. Locals expressed concerns about road safety and the negative impact on public order, urging tourists to act responsibly. The incident has reignited discussions about stricter accountability for reckless behavior in Thailand's popular tourist areas.

Intoxicated Tourist Walks Naked Through Phuket Hotel A visibly intoxicated foreign tourist was photographed walking naked through a hotel on Thaweewong Road in Patong, Phuket. Hotel security intervened, escorting the individual out and instructing them to dress. The incident, shared on the Facebook page "โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต" (Hodjang Phuket Province), sparked online discussions criticizing the behavior of some tourists under Thailand's relaxed visa policies. The event raises concerns about tourist conduct and its impact on local communities.

New Yorker Electrocuted by Faulty Streetlight in Thailand Thura Kyaw, a 33-year-old New Yorker visiting his long-distance girlfriend in Thailand, tragically died after being electrocuted by a faulty streetlight in the Thalang district. While walking to a seafood restaurant, Kyaw slipped on a wet sidewalk and grabbed a streetlight for support, which delivered a fatal shock due to a suspected live wire. A bystander was also briefly shocked while trying to help but managed to pull Kyaw away. Despite being rushed to Thalang Hospital, Kyaw was pronounced dead. The tragedy highlights infrastructure safety concerns in the area.

Fatal Massage Incidents in Thailand Spark Safety Concerns A Singaporean tourist, Lee Mun Tuck, and Thai singer Chanida Phraohom tragically died after separate massage experiences in Thailand. Lee collapsed after a massage in Phuket and later died at Patong Hospital, with an autopsy underway. Chanida, known as Phing Chanida, suffered worsening symptoms, including immobility, after repeated neck manipulations during massages in Udon Thani. These incidents have raised concerns about massage safety in Thailand, a cultural staple celebrated for its therapeutic benefits. Authorities are investigating, and the tragedies may prompt stricter regulations to ensure patron safety while preserving the essence of Thai massage.

The following transcription features news stories from across Thailand and Asia, hosted by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand program. The stories cover a range of topics, from fatal massage incidents raising safety concerns in Thailand to Malaysia's introduction of a Digital Arrival Card for visitors. 1. Fatal Massage Incidents Spark Safety Concerns in Thailand The tragic deaths of a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer after massage experiences in Thailand have raised safety concerns about the nation’s traditional massage practices. Authorities are investigating the incidents, prompting discussions on stricter regulations to ensure patron safety. 2. Thailand Shelves Controversial VAT Hike Proposal The proposed VAT increase from 7% to 15% has been reportedly shelved following backlash from the restaurant and hotel sectors. Business leaders warn of economic impacts, suggesting alternative measures to support SMEs while avoiding drastic price hikes. 3. Faulty Streetlight in Phuket Claims Tourist’s Life A New Yorker visiting Phuket tragically died after being electrocuted by a faulty streetlight. This incident has highlighted concerns about infrastructure safety and the urgent need for improvements in public utilities. 4. Drunk Police Officer Causes Standoff in Pattaya A drunken police sergeant fired gunshots and barricaded himself in his Pattaya home, causing a standoff with authorities. The officer, with a history of erratic behavior, was subdued after a tense 30-minute operation. 5. Reckless Tourist Behavior Sparks Outrage in Phuket A tourist in Phuket was filmed drinking beer and smoking while hanging out of a moving car, sparking criticism online. Locals have called for stricter penalties to ensure road safety and responsible behavior in tourist hotspots. 6. Naked Tourist Incident Raises Concerns in Phuket A drunk tourist walking naked through a hotel in Phuket has sparked discussions about visitor conduct and its impact on local communities. The incident highlights challenges tied to relaxed visa policies and tourist behavior. 7. Syria’s Assad Seeks Asylum in Russia Amid Transition Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has fled to Moscow following his resignation and a peaceful transfer of power. This marks a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape, with Russia advocating for UN-led negotiations. 8. Indonesia Repatriates Filipina on Death Row Indonesia will repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino woman on death row for drug trafficking, as part of a diplomatic agreement with the Philippines. The move underscores strengthened ties between the two nations. 9. Vietnam Suspends Chinese Retailer Temu Vietnam has suspended Temu, a Chinese online retailer, over registration compliance issues. Authorities are concerned about its impact on local businesses and are investigating its operations for regulatory violations. 10. Malaysia Introduces Digital Arrival Card for Visitors Malaysia now requires international travelers to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before entry, aiming to streamline immigration and enhance public health security.

Thailand to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage Thailand will officially legalize same-sex marriage next month, becoming the third region in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to do so. The Marriage Equality Bill, endorsed by the Royal Gazette on September 24, takes effect on January 22, 2024, granting same-sex couples the right to legally marry. Preparations include updating marriage registration systems, removing gender-specific terms, and training staff nationwide. The law applies to individuals aged 18 and older, with guardian consent required for those under 20. Broader legal revisions aim to ensure equal rights for same-sex couples in areas like surrogacy, nationality, and gender recognition.

Monk's Clever Eyebrow Fix Enables Payment A monk in Thailand overcame a welfare payment glitch when inventive store staff used black adhesive tape to create makeshift eyebrows, allowing a facial recognition system to verify his identity. The issue arose because the system couldn't recognize the monk's eyebrow-less appearance, a result of Buddhist practices. Shared on Facebook, the clever fix quickly went viral, amassing nearly 8,000 reactions. Photos of the incident, showing the monk's temporarily taped eyebrows and staff laughing at the workaround, highlight the humorous yet serious challenges technology can pose for cultural practices.

Thai PM Expects Fishermen’s Return from Myanmar Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated her government is negotiating with Myanmar for the release of four Thai fishermen captured for trespassing in Myanmar's waters. The fishermen, detained alongside 27 Myanmar nationals, are reported safe. The Thai Navy acknowledged the incursion but criticized Myanmar's use of force, which reportedly led to one death and two injuries. Myanmar’s military confirmed the detention, denying any intrusion into Thai waters, and emphasized ongoing diplomatic communication. Thailand maintains relatively warm relations with Myanmar despite the latter's contentious human rights record.

Phuket Woman Exposes Underwear Thief A Phuket woman has publicly called out a man for repeatedly stealing her underwear for inappropriate purposes and later returning it to her clothes rack. The victim, who resides in the Sam Kong neighborhood, shared her ordeal with the Phuket Times, hoping to shame the perpetrator into stopping. A video shows the man stealing and concealing underwear before returning it. While some commenters mocked the thief's audacity, others criticized the victim for drying her garments outside. Suggestions ranged from applying deterrents like pepper to taking legal action, though it's unclear if authorities have been involved.

Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang A massive fire engulfed Koh Chang’s iconic abandoned ship hotel, the Koh Chang Grand Laguna, on December 3. The blaze, fueled by wooden structures and strong winds, has consumed about 50% of the landmark, making containment efforts by over 50 responders challenging. Reportedly starting during welding repairs, the fire has spread from the ship's stern to upper decks, with authorities estimating days to fully extinguish it. Built in 1992, the unique ship-like hotel once thrived but was abandoned due to financial issues. No casualties were reported, and investigations into the fire's cause are pending.

Cannabis Retail Chain Faces Extortion Allegations Two former employees of a cannabis retail chain in Thailand have accused managers and an HR officer of false embezzlement claims, extortion, and physical assault. CCTV footage shows the HR officer slapping a worker during a heated exchange, reportedly linked to allegations of embezzlement during a promotional campaign. Employees were allegedly forced to pay compensation of up to 100,000 baht or sign guilt-admitting documents under threat of resignation. The HR officer, defending her actions, claims she has evidence and denies coercion, asserting the payments were voluntary. The incident is under investigation, with no further updates from Thai authorities.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang and South Korea Declares Martial Law Amid Political Crisis. 1. Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang A massive fire has consumed 50% of Koh Chang’s iconic ship hotel, the Koh Chang Grand Laguna. Over 50 responders are battling to contain the blaze, which reportedly started during welding repairs. No casualties have been reported. 2. Phuket Woman Exposes Underwear Thief A Phuket woman has publicly exposed a man who repeatedly stole her underwear and later returned it. The victim shared her story to deter the thief and raise awareness. 3. Thailand to Legalise Same-Sex Marriage Thailand will legalise same-sex marriage on January 22, 2024, becoming the third region in Asia to do so, following Taiwan and Nepal. 4. Cannabis Retail Chain Faces Extortion Allegations Former employees of a cannabis retail chain in Thailand allege extortion and physical assault by managers and an HR officer. The incident is under investigation. 5. Thai PM Expects Fishermen’s Return from Myanmar Thailand is negotiating with Myanmar for the release of four fishermen detained for trespassing. Diplomatic talks are ongoing amid tensions. 6. Monk's Clever Eyebrow Fix Enables Payment A monk in Thailand went viral after store staff used tape to create makeshift eyebrows, allowing a facial recognition system to verify his identity. 7. Indonesia Secures $1 Billion Apple Investment Apple has committed $1 billion to Indonesia to lift an iPhone 16 sales ban, aiming to meet local content requirements and boost job creation. 8. Exxon Considers Selling Singapore Fuel Stations Exxon Mobil is reportedly planning to sell its 59 Esso-branded stations in Singapore, a move aligning with its focus on higher-growth markets. 9. South Korea Declares Martial Law Amid Political Crisis South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law citing political threats but reversed the decision within hours following parliamentary opposition. 10. Cambodia Blocks Crypto Exchanges Amid Cleanup Cambodia has banned 16 unlicensed crypto exchanges, including Binance, in a move to address rising crypto-related crimes and improve regulation.

Israeli Attacked in Thailand Amid Rising Safety Concerns A 22-year-old Israeli backpacker, Mr. Ilay, was assaulted by a group of German tourists in northern Thailand, intensifying safety fears for Israelis in the region. The unprovoked attack, marked by insults targeting his nationality, left him with injuries, fueling concerns about hostility toward Israeli tourists. This incident coincides with Israel’s National Security Council raising Thailand’s travel warning to Level 2, urging vigilance rather than evacuation. Israeli authorities advise tourists to avoid large gatherings, maintain a low profile, and refrain from publicizing travel plans.

University Sports Event Hit by Hidden Camera Scandal A university sports event in Surin was shaken by the discovery of hidden cameras in the athletes’ bathroom, sparking public outrage. A suspect, who initially denied the allegations, was found with over 30 explicit videos on his phone, shared via a messaging app. Athletes grew suspicious of the man’s repeated visits to the bathroom over three days. After a volleyball player alerted their coach, an investigation revealed a camera disguised as a charger. Despite the suspect's denials, police uncovered substantial evidence, confirming privacy violations and igniting calls for stricter security measures at public events.

Russian Actress Kamilla Belyatskaya Dies in Cliffside Tragedy in Thailand Kamilla Belyatskaya, a 24-year-old aspiring Russian actress, was swept to her death by a giant wave while meditating on a yoga mat at Koh Samui’s Lad Ko viewpoint. The tragic incident occurred during a vacation with her boyfriend. Footage shows Belyatskaya being struck by the wave and struggling in the rough currents. Rescue efforts were hindered by 9-foot waves, and her body was later found two-thirds of a mile from the scene. Authorities stated the area wasn’t a swimming zone but warned tourists of dangerous conditions during monsoon season. Access to the rocky area has since been closed to prevent further accidents.