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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Investigation Wraps on Local Exam Cheating Scandal

An investigation into fraud in Thailand's 2025 local government recruitment exam has wrapped, with a four-part report documenting how 8,000 requested positions ballooned to 10,000 appointments and identifying procedural defects. Deputy PM P

Investigation Wraps on Local Exam Cheating Scandal
24 Jul Khaosod

At 4 p.m. on July 24 at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister Prakorn Nilpraphan briefed reporters on the fact-finding committee's investigation into fraud in the 2025 local government civil service recruitment exam (Round 3). He said the secretariat and working team have drafted a four-part report: (1) how position quotas were set and why final numbers exceeded the original request; (2) defects found in pre-exam procedures, the Terms of Reference, contractor agreements, and exam administration that diverged from standard Civil Service Commission practice; (3) whether exam documentation and procedures met standards of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; and (4) how 8,000 requested positions became 10,000 approved appointments and whether this complied with law and policy. Prakorn stated that over 100 people from public and private sectors are linked to the process, though the committee will not declare anyone guilty—instead referring cases to relevant agencies for disciplinary, criminal, or administrative investigation. The panel will finalize its report by August 4 to recommend referrals to police, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Comptroller's Office, and the Auditor General. The investigation also includes financial flow tracing conducted by relevant authorities.

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National

Thailand Shelves Landmark Bridge Project Over Economic, Environmental Concerns

Thailand has scrapped its ambitious Landbridge infrastructure project after a government committee found it economically unviable and environmentally risky, with shipping lines unlikely to use the route despite global trade disruptions. The

Thailand Shelves Landmark Bridge Project Over Economic, Environmental Concerns
24 Jul Khaosod

At 4 p.m. on July 24, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitivattanapong announced the findings of a committee studying the Landbridge project—a major infrastructure initiative designed to connect transport between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The study, completed ahead of its 90-day deadline, was conducted by three separate working groups examining economic feasibility and investment potential, environmental impacts, and public consultation and stakeholder engagement.

Ekniti stated that the committee's conclusion was that the Landbridge project has low business viability and poses substantial budget and risk impacts. Global trade disruptions from Middle East tensions could turn projected positive returns negative, creating significant economic risk. Additionally, shipping lines are unlikely to shift operations to Thailand because major carriers already have established alliances. Management risks also include slow cargo movement logistics, resulting in low economic returns and overall high risk.

On environmental concerns, Ekniti noted the risks are considerable and require greater strategic oversight. Integration of environmental protections remains incomplete, failing to adequately address marine ecosystems, coastal community livelihoods, food security, and forest preservation. Public feedback was divided: private sector and manufacturing interests supported the project, while environmental and marine conservation groups opposed it, with most stakeholders expressing concern and indecision.

The committee concluded that while the project has low business potential and high environmental risk with ongoing public disagreement, private sector demand for a Andaman-side port access remains. The government will instead pursue development of Ranong Port to its full potential, explore railway connections to Ranong, and consider "missing link" rail infrastructure connecting northward to China and eastward ports.

On large-scale investment projects generally, the committee recommended that each country's strategic objectives be clarified before agencies conduct feasibility studies—treating this as a lesson for the future and emphasizing that environmental strategy and public consultation must be integrated from the start.

When asked if this constituted shelving the Landbridge project, Ekniti said: "You could say that." The deputy prime minister did not clarify whether cabinet approval of the study findings would be sought.

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National

North Star Park Launches Elite International School for Tennis, Golf Stars

North Star Park has launched an elite international school combining academic education with professional tennis and golf training near Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, with legendary coaches and four youth scholarships announced at the July

North Star Park Launches Elite International School for Tennis, Golf Stars
24 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, and Philip Suvannahuehn, founder and CEO of North Star Park and BISA, jointly announced the project at the Royal Pavilion of the Bangkok Sports Club on July 24, 2025. The announcement featured prominent sports figures including Emilio Sánchez, the legendary tennis academy founder who developed Andy Murray, Grigor Dimitrov, Svetlana Kuznetsova, and Daniela Hantuchová, alongside Geno Atayas, Thailand's former world No. 1 golfer now ranked No. 2 globally, and Chris Asvapimolporn, golf director at BISA. Four scholarship awards of 109,000 baht each were presented to selected youth for an 11-day training camp at Alpine Tennis Club to train alongside world-class professional athletes.

North Star Park is a new real estate and sports mega-project near Suvarnabhumi Airport designed to house BISA, an international institution combining academic education with elite-level athletic training. The vision aims to create a 360-degree learning and training ecosystem for students aged 12-18 who aspire to become professional athletes without abandoning their education. Founded by Philippe, who brings business strategy, technology, and management expertise, the project integrates education, sports, and wellness into a unified ecosystem. North Star Park will comprise an international school, elite tennis and golf training centers, sports performance development facilities, wellness areas, hospitality services, community sports spaces, and event venues, with core curricula focused on tennis and golf using modern teaching methods.

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National

PM Anuthins Approves Deputy Minister Aide's Resignation

PM Anutin Charnvirakul approved the resignation of Sonti Piyathat, an aide to Deputy PM Piphat Ratchakitprakarn, on July 24, 2025, though no reason was disclosed.

PM Anuthins Approves Deputy Minister Aide's Resignation
24 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister confirmed on July 24, 2025, that he has approved the resignation of Sonti Piyathat from his position as aide to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Piphat Ratchakitprakarn. Anutin explained that Sonti submitted a resignation letter without providing any stated reason. He emphasized that the resignation is now effective and constitutes the aide's right to leave office. Anutin stated that when he appointed Sonti to assist Piphat, he delegated that responsibility, and suggested that anyone seeking the true reasons should ask Piphat directly, as his own duty was limited to approving the resignation letter.

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National

PM Anuthis Refuses to Detail Manhunt for Soldiers' Shooter

Prime Minister Anuthis Charnvirakul refused to disclose details of the operation to apprehend the gunman who shot five soldiers in Thailand's southern border provinces, vowing the government will not tolerate further attacks on military per

PM Anuthis Refuses to Detail Manhunt for Soldiers' Shooter
24 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthis Charnvirakul avoided discussing specifics of the operation to catch the gunman responsible for shooting five soldiers, stating the government will not tolerate further attacks on military and security personnel. Speaking at Government House on July 24, Anuthis acknowledged reports of the incident in Thailand's southern border provinces and insisted that despite avoiding the term "manhunt," the government will not allow soldiers and officials to be harassed and killed again. When asked about the Narathiwat commander's announcement of martial law to pursue the perpetrators, Anuthis said the matter was already being handled on the ground but declined to elaborate on methods, saying he must focus on delivering justice to the victims' families.

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Tourism

Kim Seonho Fills Hall With Love at Bangkok Fan Meeting

Korean actor Kim Seonho emotionally connected with hundreds of Thai fans at his Bangkok fan meeting on Saturday, sharing intimate moments and entertaining performances that celebrated their devoted support.

Kim Seonho Fills Hall With Love at Bangkok Fan Meeting
24 Jul Khaosod

Kim Seonho delivered an evening brimming with warmth and memorable moments at his 2026 Fan Meeting in Bangkok, held on Saturday, June 20, at Thunder Dome in Muang Thong Thani. The hall erupted with screams as he took the stage, greeting fans in Thai with "I've missed you so much," flashing a warm smile and commanding presence.

The event kicked off with a "counter service" segment where Kim recounted his early morning jog at Lumpini Park and shared how he encountered many fans there. Known affectionately as the "Sukhumvit Boy," he has become so integrated into Thai life that he lives as a true Bangkok resident. He then discussed his bucket list, giving himself a perfect five-star rating for the year and revealing that his key goal was to meet as many fans as possible and thank them personally—a mission he felt had been accomplished when he saw the crowd that evening. Moved by the moment, tears streamed down his face.

The "research room" segment allowed fans closer interaction as Kim answered questions, handwrote messages of love, and playfully transformed into a detective and race car driver, drawing continuous laughter and smiles. The "storage room" segment turned up the entertainment factor when Kim surprised fans with a cute dance performance to the song "Oob Bo Jang" by Bee The Star, sending the crowd into roaring cheers. Games followed, including ring toss and a water cup trick that had everyone laughing.

Highlights continued as Kim transformed into a flight attendant for "Seonho Airline," taking fans on a journey of happiness and memories. The evening concluded with a fan-made project presentation that deeply moved the actor, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering love and support from Thai fans. The 2026 Kim Seonho Fan Meeting in Bangkok, presented by Grand Prix Xpectrum under Grand Prix International Public Company, proved to be another quality-packed evening filled with smiles, laughter, and shared love.

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National

Thailand Braces for US Tariffs, Pushes IPEF Deal

Thailand faces a 12.5% US import tariff on its goods but expects limited overall impact since many products already have exemptions. The government is urgently pushing to finalize an Indo-Pacific Economic Framework deal with the US, which c

Thailand Braces for US Tariffs, Pushes IPEF Deal
24 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas held a media briefing at Government House today regarding the US announcement of a 12.5% import tariff under Section 301 on over 37 trading partners, including Thailand. He confirmed the government is urgently assessing the impact and negotiating closely with the United States, and has coordinated with Commerce Minister Supa Jutatip, who is directly overseeing the matter. Ekniti noted that many Thai private sector products already have tax exemptions, so overall impact on Thailand is expected to be limited. However, some goods remain unexempted, and the government must consult closely with the private sector to identify which industries are most affected and determine what measures are needed to support them. Ekniti emphasized that Thailand's most critical task is to accelerate negotiations with the United States, particularly on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). Some countries have already concluded negotiations and secured a 10% tariff rate, while Thailand remains in the process of pushing for a final agreement. "What matters most is that we must negotiate with the US as quickly as possible, because other countries that have finished already got 10%, but Thailand hasn't yet," Ekniti said. He added that if Thailand can negotiate quickly, the impact of the tariff measures will be reduced. He also suggested the government should use the US raising forced labor issues as an opportunity to reform and upgrade the country's standards to align with international norms. Ekniti stated that upgrading labor standards and production processes should not be viewed merely as foreign conditions, but as an important opportunity to enhance Thailand's long-term competitiveness. When Thai standards match those of competing countries, trade costs from protectionist measures will fall, and Thai businesses will have more room to compete. As for the broader impact, Ekniti assessed that it would likely affect only certain sectors that lack tariff exemptions, but he could not yet specify all affected product groups, particularly in food or other industries, and asked for clearer data first. He said his team will hold a follow-up meeting with the secretary's team and relevant agencies to assess the impact on Thailand's overall economy, including exports, by industry, and business competitiveness, before determining negotiation guidelines and additional support measures. "We need to see the details first to identify which product groups are truly affected, but overall I think the impact will be limited because many items already have exemptions. For the rest, we need to hurry up with negotiations," Ekniti concluded.

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National

Thailand to Appeal US Tariff Hike, Targets Lowest Rate Possible

Thailand will appeal a newly imposed 12.5% US tariff on its goods, citing forced labor compliance concerns, and aims to negotiate the rate down to the lowest possible level through its strong trade relationship with America.

Thailand to Appeal US Tariff Hike, Targets Lowest Rate Possible
24 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated on July 24, 2569, at Government House that the United States tariff of 12.5% on Thai goods represents a compliance issue. He said Thailand received preliminary notification of the tariff and is expediting work by relevant agencies to address it, noting that concerns relate to forced labor matters. Anutin acknowledged the need to examine why such issues were not resolved earlier but expressed confidence that Thailand's strong relationship and good trading partnership with the US will allow it to appeal for a tariff reduction at the first available opportunity. When asked if Thailand aims to restore the rate to 10%, Anutin said negotiations must achieve the lowest possible rate, requiring thorough preparation. He deferred details on the timing of future negotiations, awaiting a full report from Commerce Minister Supachai Suthithamronpanit, who heads Thailand's US negotiating team and is returning from America.

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Police

Obsessed Man Demolishes Shop After Being Rejected

A man arrested in Chanthaburi after destroying a grocery store and vehicle worth nearly 200,000 baht had repeatedly pursued the shop owner romantically before she rejected him. Police say he has a history of violent property destruction tar

Obsessed Man Demolishes Shop After Being Rejected
24 Jul Khaosod

On July 24, authorities inspected a grocery store in Laem Sing District, Chanthaburi, after a man destroyed merchandise and property. Shop owner Ms. Saowaniton, 53, reported that her neighbor Phuriwaht had been pursuing her romantically, but she repeatedly declined his advances due to being a widow. Security camera footage from July 23 at 11:14 a.m. documented Phuriwaht singing outside the shop before the rampage, during which he kicked and scattered merchandise, smashed refrigerator glass, threw bottles at a parked pickup truck, and damaged its exterior extensively.

Phuriwaht returned to continue destroying property, kicking shelves and hurling fruit and vegetable trays while appearing mentally unhinged. He casually drank beverages and poured water on his injured left foot before continuing his destruction. Ms. Saowaniton said Phuriwaht had shown jealousy on previous occasions, once throwing vegetables at her 25-year-old son who defended her. On the day of the incident, his behavior was more severe after being ignored.

When officers from Laem Sing Police Station arrived, Phuriwaht was still destroying property and refused to stop. Police subdued and arrested him. Total damages reached 199,100 baht, including a gray Toyota Revo pickup (40,000 baht), storefront doors and windows (100,000 baht), refrigerated display cases (50,000 baht), a folding steel table (4,000 baht), beverages (600 baht), and other items. Neighbors noted Phuriwaht is extremely dangerous; he previously demolished his sister's multi-million-baht house in Prachuap Buri and destroyed five-room shophouses near the victim's shop, forcing his elderly parents to flee their home.

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National

Thailand Launches Nationwide Discount Drive Aug 1-15

Over 800 local retailers nationwide are offering discounts up to 60% on essential goods from August 1-15 under Thailand's 'Thailand Helps Thailand x Local Low Cost' campaign to combat rising living costs.

Thailand Launches Nationwide Discount Drive Aug 1-15
24 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's Commerce Ministry and the Thai Wholesale-Retail Association are rolling out the 'Thailand Helps Thailand x Local Low Cost' campaign, uniting over 800 local wholesale and retail outlets nationwide to offer discounts of up to 60% on everyday consumer goods starting August 1-15. The initiative, announced by Poonpong Nayanagarner, director of the Department of Business Development under the Commerce Ministry, aims to address rising living costs by linking producers, retailers, and consumers while giving local merchants a bigger role in distributing affordable goods to their communities. Essential items such as rice, fish sauce, and condiments will be offered at special prices across more than 130 participating stores with 800 branches nationwide, supporting small retailers, boosting local purchasing power, and stimulating grassroots economic growth. The campaign also welcomes small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and community-based products to sell through local wholesale and retail channels at promotional prices, strengthening income distribution and local economies. The official launch is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2025, at Tung Ngee Sunny Superstore's Na Di branch in Udon Thani Province, coinciding with the 'Thailand Helps Thailand Plus 60/40' welfare card initiative to ensure broad access to affordable quality goods across the country.

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National

Politician Claims Video Proves Senate Chief Submitted Ballot

A People's Party MP released video evidence claiming to show Thailand's Senate President submitting a ballot during recent Senate elections, allegations the president has repeatedly refused to address publicly.

Politician Claims Video Proves Senate Chief Submitted Ballot
24 Jul Khaosod

On July 24, Pricha Watcharasindhul, a People's Party list MP, posted video evidence of alleged ballot fraud in Senate elections, stating that new footage confirms with 100 percent certainty that one of the Senate candidates who submitted a ballot to the election commission is Senate President Mongkol Suratthadsaja.

About a month earlier (June 15), Pricha noted observations based on the number and physical appearance of candidates in footage of the national Senate election, suggesting that one candidate submitting a ballot to the commission was Mongkol Suratthadsaja, who now serves as Senate President. Subsequently, President Mongkol refused to answer media questions twice (July 17 and July 7) about whether he was the person in the video, instead directing journalists to ask Pricha.

Pricha stated that Mongkol's refusal to answer directly is itself a form of confirmation. However, he said he has now obtained new video evidence showing Mongkol's face clearly and confirming that the person in the footage is indeed Mongkol Suratthadsaja with 100 percent certainty, beyond any doubt (visible in the final 10 seconds of the video).

Over the past one to two months, various parties have released information related to the alleged Senate fraud scheme, including election commission video of ballot collection, provincial fraud operation details, testimony from four witnesses presented by the opposition two weeks ago, and data compiled by iLaw earlier this week. These materials contain specific allegations directed at senators, politicians, or election officials named explicitly.

However, rather than responding to or clarifying these allegations to the public, many public figures have chosen to avoid questioning, deflect, change the subject, sue their accusers, or spread unofficial information to intimidate those conducting oversight. Mongkol's case demonstrates that choosing not to answer questions is itself a form of response. As evidence continues to emerge publicly without waiting for answers, such officials will find it increasingly difficult to respond.

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