Video News

Thailand’s “rental wife” trend draws attention Thailand’s "rental wife" trend, also known as the "black pearl" phenomenon, is gaining attention in Pattaya’s red-light districts. Women from impoverished areas temporarily act as companions to foreign tourists, offering services like companionship and tour guidance. Contracts range from days to months, with fees spanning US$1,600 to $116,000, depending on factors like age and education. Inspired by similar trends in Japan and South Korea, the practice highlights loneliness amidst urbanization. While some arrangements lead to long-term relationships, critics warn of exploitation due to its legal grey area. Advocates see it as an economic lifeline, but others call it a sign of societal inequality.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia. Highlights include the Phuket governor's proposal for a monorail to ease traffic and Laos' ban on Tiger Vodka following methanol poisoning deaths. 1. Thailand’s “Rental Wife” Trend Gains Attention A rising trend in Pattaya sees women offering companionship to tourists as “rental wives.” Dubbed the “black pearl” phenomenon, it highlights economic struggles and urban loneliness but faces criticism for potential exploitation. 2. Rama II Road Congestion Eased with Reversible Lane After a deadly construction collapse, a reversible lane on Rama II Road now operates daily to manage traffic. The incident raised safety concerns over the M82 motorway project. 3. Thai Police Raid Illegal Cockfighting Ring Police in Nakhon Phanom arrested 49 people during a raid on an illegal cockfighting site, seizing equipment, cash, and fighting cocks worth 40,000 baht. Investigations continue. 4. Phuket Governor Proposes Monorail to Ease Traffic Phuket’s governor is considering a monorail system to tackle traffic issues on the island. AI-controlled traffic lights are also part of the proposed solutions. 5. Thailand Property Reforms Target Foreign Buyers Proposed property law changes aim to boost foreign investment, including raising foreign condo ownership limits and extending land leaseholds. Critics warn of risks to national sovereignty. 6. Thailand’s M81 Motorway Opens Free for New Year The new M81 motorway connecting Nonthaburi to Kanchanaburi will be toll-free from December 26 to January 2, easing holiday travel and improving connectivity. 7. Vietnam Approves $67 Billion Railway Project Vietnam greenlights a high-speed rail project linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, alongside new laws on data protection and electricity reforms. 8. Deadly Flooding Hits Malaysia and Thailand Severe flooding has displaced over 135,000 residents in both countries, with northern Malaysia and southern Thailand among the worst affected. Relief efforts are ongoing. 9. Myanmar Navy Detains Thai Fishermen After Border Clash A clash near Ranong province led to the detention of 31 fishermen and the death of one. Thai authorities are negotiating their release. 10. Laos Bans Tiger Vodka After Methanol Deaths Laos has banned Tiger Vodka and Whisky following methanol poisoning deaths in Vang Vieng. Tourists are advised to exercise caution and avoid unlicensed spirits.

Thailand Seeks to Boost Pygmy Hippo Population Thailand is taking steps to boost its pygmy hippopotamus population by planning the breeding of Moo Toon and Moo Manao. Moo Toon, a five-year-old male from Khao Kheow Open Zoo, will be paired with eight-year-old Moo Manao from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. Preparations are underway to transport Moo Manao to Chon Buri and set up a suitable enclosure for the breeding process, with a symbolic “wedding” planned for the duo. Pygmy hippos, shy and solitary by nature, require a carefully curated environment for successful breeding.

Bangkok Restaurant Sorn Earns Michelin’s First 3-Star Rating for Thailand Bangkok’s Sorn has made history as the first Thai restaurant to earn three Michelin stars in the 2025 Michelin Guide Thailand. Helmed by Chef Supaksorn Jongsiri, Sorn was lauded for its excellence, quality, and consistency, ascending from one star in 2019 to three this year. Located in a traditional Thai house off Sukhumvit Soi 26, the restaurant’s elevated take on authentic Thai cuisine has captivated diners worldwide. The 2025 guide features 462 establishments, including seven two-star and 28 one-star venues.

Thai Submarine Plans Stalled Pending Feasibility Study Thailand's plans to acquire a Chinese-built Yuan-class S26T submarine remain stalled as a feasibility study is still underway, according to Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The 12.4 billion baht project has faced delays due to an engine switch from a German-made MTU396 to a Chinese CHD620. This change requires amendments to the original contract, adding to the uncertainty. Despite the navy's firm commitment to the submarine, previous Defence Minister Sutin Khlangsang suggested pivoting to a frigate, an idea rejected by naval leaders.

Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier Finally Gets New Roofs Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier is finally getting its roofs back after over a year of weather-exposed walkways. Workers began installing metal sheets on one roof structure, with repairs expected to finish within a week or by year’s end. The pier, a vital hub connecting Koh Samui to Surat Thani and other destinations, had been roofless since December 2022 due to delays by a contractor managing a 212 million baht project. Frustrated by inaction, the local municipality took over, securing approval to complete the work. While passengers welcome the upgrades, questions remain about the original contractor's failure.

Thailand’s Biggest Seizure of Call Scam Equipment Police in Chiang Mai conducted multiple raids, leading to Thailand's largest seizure of call scam equipment linked to a Thai-Chinese gang. Authorities found 642 SIM boxes, 590,000 SIM cards, 72 computers, 1,455 mobile phones, and 47 SIM card readers across 11 rented houses. Fifteen suspects were arrested, including two Thais, five Chinese nationals, and eight people from Myanmar. The equipment was used to create fake social media accounts for scams. The operation's leader, a Chinese national, remains at large, and his Thai wife, who rented the properties, was arrested.

AOT Implements Facial Recognition for Faster Checkpoints Thailand's Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced the rollout of facial recognition technology at six major airports for international flights starting December 1. The biometric system, deployed in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Don Mueang, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Suvarnabhumi, aims to cut checkpoint processing times from three minutes to one. Passengers can register at check-in counters or self-service kiosks, where their faces are scanned. Registered travellers can then use automated bag drop machines without boarding passes or passports. Data will be erased within 48 hours to comply with the Personal Data Protection Act.

The transcription below highlights a variety of news stories from Thailand and Asia, as featured in The Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The stories cover topics ranging from AOT's introduction of facial recognition technology for faster airport checkpoints to Sorn’s historic achievement as Thailand’s first Michelin 3-star restaurant. 1. AOT Introduces Facial Recognition for Faster Airport Checkpoints Thailand’s Airports of Thailand (AOT) will launch facial recognition technology at six major airports for international flights starting December 1. The new system aims to reduce checkpoint processing times from three minutes to one, offering passengers a faster and smoother travel experience. 2. Thailand’s Largest Call Scam Equipment Seizure In a major crackdown on call scams, police in Chiang Mai seized over 590,000 SIM cards, and 1,455 mobile phones, and arrested 15 suspects tied to a Thai-Chinese gang. The operation marks the country’s largest haul of scam equipment to date. 3. Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier Roof Repairs Underway After a year of delays, Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier is finally seeing roof repairs progress, with work expected to complete by year-end. The upgrades promise improved facilities at the vital transport hub. 4. Thailand’s Submarine Purchase Faces Further Delays Plans to acquire a Chinese Yuan-class submarine remain stalled as a feasibility study continues. Contract amendments and technical concerns over engine specifications add to the uncertainty. 5. Sorn Becomes Thailand’s First Michelin 3-Star Restaurant Bangkok’s Sorn restaurant has achieved a historic milestone, earning three Michelin stars in the 2025 Michelin Guide. The restaurant is celebrated for its elevated take on authentic Thai cuisine. 6. Thailand Seeks to Boost Pygmy Hippo Population Thailand plans to breed two pygmy hippos, Moo Toon and Moo Manao, to grow their population. Preparations for a symbolic “wedding” and a specialized enclosure are currently underway. 7. Thailand Deports Cambodian Activists Amid Rights Concerns Six Cambodian activists have been deported from Thailand and face treason charges at home, raising concerns among human rights groups over their treatment and safety. 8. China Warns Taiwan Over U.S. Stopover China has issued a stern warning against Taiwan independence efforts ahead of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s U.S. visit, escalating tensions with military drills in the region. 9. Indian Parliament Suspended Amid Adani Allegations India’s parliament faced disruptions as opposition lawmakers demanded accountability over allegations of a $265 million bribery scheme linked to the Adani Group, sparking political turmoil. 10. American Influencer Faces Prison in South Korea American live-streamer Ramsey Khalid Ismael, known as "Johnny Somali," faces up to five years in prison in South Korea for disruptive and offensive behaviour, fueling debates about nuisance influencers in Asia.

Drunk Woman Causes Traffic Jam in Pattaya An intoxicated woman caused a traffic jam on South Pattaya Road after being found asleep in her car during rush hour. Police and rescue workers spent 30 minutes waking her, finding an opened beer bottle in the vehicle. Witnesses said two men, believed to be her companions, reclined her seat and left her to sleep in the middle of the road. The woman was taken to Pattaya Police Station to sober up as officials review legal actions for the disruption and endangerment caused.

Bangkok Police Deny Viral Video Involvement Bangkok police denied involvement in a viral explicit video showing a food delivery rider allegedly performing oral sex on a policeman in public. The video, shared widely on social media, sparked speculation that the individuals were actors creating adult content using uniforms bought online. The location matched a Bangkok police station, but officers claimed no connection. Under Thai law, such acts could lead to fines and prison sentences for public obscenity and uploading indecent material online. Investigations are ongoing to verify the video's authenticity and origin.

Parents Defrauded by Tutor in Nakhon Sawan Police arrested 27-year-old tutor Papawadee, alias Teacher Toi, in Phayao for defrauding over 30 parents in Nakhon Sawan. She allegedly offered private tutoring via social media, collecting over 400,000 baht in fees before disappearing. The operation followed three outstanding arrest warrants and complaints from 38 parents. Papawadee was transferred to Nong Pling Police Station for legal proceedings. This case highlights rising fraud on social media, prompting authorities to urge caution and due diligence in online transactions, particularly those involving significant payments.

Thai couple appeals to public for help in hit-and-run incident A couple in Pathum Thani sought justice after a hit-and-run involving a suspected stolen vehicle endangered their family. The incident occurred on November 17 when a black Isuzu pickup crashed into their car and fled. Despite filing a complaint, police made no significant progress, prompting the couple to seek help from the Saimai Survive organization. The vehicle's owner had reported it stolen months earlier, suggesting potential links to a trafficking gang. Police deny inaction, stating investigations, including reviewing CCTV footage, are ongoing. Meanwhile, the couple has shouldered repair costs and continues to seek accountability.

Meth-High Patient Causes Chaos in Maha Sarakham Hospital A methamphetamine-intoxicated patient terrorized nurses at a Maha Sarakham hospital, forcing them to flee as he wielded a bed rail. The chaos ensued after the patient, restrained by just one handcuff at his mother’s request, broke free. The incident, captured on video, highlighted the dangers healthcare workers face. Law enforcement eventually subdued the patient, who was sent to a psychiatric facility. The hospital plans infrastructural upgrades, including enclosed areas, to enhance safety. The event sparked social media discussions about the need for better protection and support for healthcare staff. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Transwomen Clash Over Client on Phuket’s Bangla Road A fight between two Thai transwomen on Phuket’s Bangla Road over a foreign client sparked local outrage, with photos and CCTV footage capturing the incident. This clash, along with others, has led to frustration among locals and tourists, as some transwomen have been banned from entertainment venues for such behavior. Netizens criticized the negative impact on Phuket’s tourism and the broader transgender community, urging authorities to take action to protect the island’s reputation. While some see the incidents as typical of red-light districts, others demand stricter control to curb such altercations.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand program. Highlights include the controversy over a transwomen clash in Phuket and the clearing of Najib Razak on some 1MDB-related charges. 1. Transwomen Fight Sparks Outrage in Phuket A fight between two transwomen over a client on Phuket's Bangla Road went viral, raising concerns about tourism and calls for stricter regulations. 2. Meth-Intoxicated Patient Causes Hospital Chaos A meth-intoxicated patient at a Maha Sarakham hospital attacked staff with a bed rail, highlighting safety risks for healthcare workers. 3. Pathum Thani Couple Seeks Justice for Hit-and-Run A couple in Pathum Thani turned to the public for help after a hit-and-run linked to a suspected trafficking gang endangered their family. 4. Tutor Arrested for Defrauding Parents in Nakhon Sawan A tutor was arrested for scamming over 30 parents out of 400,000 baht, prompting warnings about rising social media fraud. 5. Bangkok Police Deny Link to Viral Explicit Video Bangkok police refuted involvement in a viral explicit video, suspected to involve actors using fake uniforms. Investigations are ongoing. 6. Drunk Woman Blocks Traffic in Pattaya An intoxicated woman asleep in her car caused a rush-hour traffic jam in Pattaya. She faces legal action for endangerment and disruption. 7. Filipino Fugitive Arrested in Bali for $67M Scam Indonesian authorities arrested a Filipino fugitive for defrauding thousands in a $67 million scam, showcasing ASEAN’s anti-crime efforts. 8. Vietnamese Tycoon Ordered to Repay $11B Facing a death sentence for embezzlement, Vietnamese tycoon Truong My Lan must repay $11 billion to avoid execution. 9. Najib Razak Cleared of Some 1MDB Charges Malaysia dropped 1MDB charges against Najib Razak, sparking debates on anti-corruption progress as he seeks house arrest. 10. Sanofi Opens $595M Vaccine Facility in Singapore Sanofi launched a $595 million vaccine facility in Singapore, boosting global pandemic preparedness with cutting-edge production technology.

Thai actress from Netflix show shines with Emmy win Thai actress Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying, known as Aokbab, made history by winning the Best Performance by an Actress award at the 52nd International Emmy Awards for her role in Netflix’s Hunger. She is the first Thai actress to achieve this prestigious accolade. Hunger, a gripping story of ambition and fine dining, features Aokbab as Aoy, a street food chef navigating the intense world of haute cuisine. The film became a global Netflix hit in 2023. Competing against strong international nominees, Aokbab’s Emmy win highlights her talent and brings global attention to Thailand’s thriving film industry.

Aussie man goes viral in conversation with Butterbear An Australian man melted hearts on Thai TikTok after a video of his adorable chat with Thailand’s mascot, Butterbear, went viral. Shared by his Thai girlfriend, Kae, the clip shows the man warmly introducing himself to Butterbear in a mix of English and polite Thai, praising her dancing skills and expressing their shared admiration. The couple had visited Butterbear’s EmSphere store in Bangkok and proudly showcased Butterbear dolls they purchased. The video call was part of a special fan event, where lucky fans could chat with the mascot. Thai netizens praised the man’s clear and kind communication, celebrating Butterbear’s growing international fanbase.

A British man is busted smuggling cannabis to clear his debts Dean Pharoah, a 28-year-old Briton, was caught smuggling over £200,000 worth of cannabis from Thailand at Manchester Airport. Attempting to clear debts to his mother, he claimed he was holding the bags “for a friend” but struggled to explain why he didn’t know the combination. Border officers used a default code to unlock the suitcases, revealing 53.65 kilograms of cannabis. Pharoah admitted to being offered £10,000 for the job and pleaded guilty to drug importation. Judge John Potter sentenced him to 26 months in prison, emphasizing the severe consequences of drug smuggling.

Bus accidents in Thailand have increased nearly 50% in recent years Public bus accidents in Thailand surged by 46.5% in 2023, with fatalities more than doubling from the previous year, according to the NESDC. Driver behavior, including speeding, tailgating, and fatigue, accounted for 81.1% of incidents, exacerbated by poor working conditions. Ageing, poorly maintained buses and unsafe vehicle modifications, such as improperly installed CNG systems, further increased risks. A tragic example occurred on October 1, when an overloaded school excursion bus caught fire, revealing severe safety violations. Despite promises of reform, inadequate enforcement and prioritization of profit over safety persist, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and accountability.

A shooting incident in Samut Prakan leaves multiple dead A shooting in Samut Prakan left four dead and a seven-year-old girl severely injured when 63-year-old Pisit Lamplee opened fire on a neighboring family before taking his own life. The tragedy occurred near Samutprakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo on Monday night. Victims included a 69-year-old woman, her 43-year-old daughter, and her 45-year-old ex-husband. The child, who suffered multiple gunshot wounds, is in critical condition. Police reported the dispute stemmed from a recent loan of 80,000 baht, which the woman lent to others, angering the gunman. Investigations continue as the community mourns the loss.

A 7-year-old boy was killed by his Thai mother in Whales A 7-year-old boy, Louis Linse, was tragically killed by his Thai mother, Papaipit Linse, in Haverfordwest, Wales, shaking the quiet town. Papaipit admitted to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Swansea Crown Court, citing years of domestic abuse and mental health struggles. Originally from Thailand, she endured a violent marriage with her estranged husband, Edward, now in a psychiatric facility. Financial ruin and failed businesses compounded her struggles. Neighbors described her as a devoted, quiet mother, leaving the community shocked by the tragedy. Police praised their team’s professionalism in a highly emotional case. Papaipit awaits sentencing on December 13.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Asia, covering topics such as the tragic killing of a 7-year-old boy by his Thai mother in Wales and a deadly shooting incident in Samut Prakan. 1. Tragedy in Wales: A Thai mother, Papaipit Linse, admitted to manslaughter by diminished responsibility after killing her 7-year-old son, Louis Linse. She cited years of domestic abuse and mental health struggles. Sentencing is set for December 13. 2. Samut Prakan Shooting: A 63-year-old man shot three neighbors dead, critically injured a child, and took his own life near Samutprakan Crocodile Farm. The dispute stemmed from an 80,000-baht loan. 3. Rising Bus Accidents in Thailand: Bus accidents surged 46.5% in 2023, with fatalities doubling due to driver errors, poor maintenance, and unsafe modifications. Experts urge stricter enforcement. 4. Cannabis Smuggling Case: Dean Pharoah, 28, was jailed for smuggling £200,000 worth of cannabis from Thailand to the UK. Border officers found 53.65 kg of drugs in his luggage. 5. Viral Butterbear Chat: An Australian man went viral on Thai TikTok for his charming interaction with mascot Butterbear, showcasing a mix of Thai and English in a sweet exchange. 6. Thai Actress Wins Emmy: Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying, known as Aokbab, won Best Actress at the 52nd International Emmy Awards for her role in Netflix’s Hunger, making history for Thailand. 7. Laotian Alcohol Poisoning: Eight hostel staff in Laos were arrested after six tourists died from suspected methanol poisoning. The government pledges to ensure justice and enhance tourist safety. 8. Philippine Political Clash: VP Sara Duterte faces legal action over remarks about assassinating President Marcos if she were killed. She claims her comments were taken out of context. 9. Thailand-Cambodia Bus Resumes: Cross-border buses between Bangkok, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap will resume on November 29, boosting tourism and offering affordable travel options. 10. South Korean Draft Evasion: A man received a suspended sentence for gaining over 20 kg to avoid military duty, spotlighting the country’s controversies around draft evasion.

Khao San Road Tourism Declines Amid European Visitor Drop Khao San Road is facing a dip in European tourist bookings ahead of the festive season, with hotel reservations for December 30-31 dropping to 60%, down from 70% last year. The decline is attributed to uncertainties stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, impacting European visitors who typically form 80% of the area’s tourist demographic. Despite this, Khao San remains hopeful for a late surge in bookings, expecting up to 70,000 tourists for its New Year’s Eve countdown, potentially generating over 70 million baht.

Motorcycle Taxis Cause Traffic Chaos at Pattaya Concert A hip-hop concert at Legend Siam near Pattaya caused severe traffic gridlock as hundreds of motorcycle taxis parked illegally in traffic lanes, reducing road capacity and creating kilometers-long jams. Residents criticized the lack of organized parking and traffic management, questioning whether organizers had proper permits. Complaints focused on taxi drivers blocking roads and residential access, with calls for improved event planning and stricter regulations.