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National

'Phan Rak Maew' Opens Up About Dropping Medical School, Takes Criticism in Stride, Asks for a Year to Find Herself

Influencer Phan Panthita Bunchuan, known as 'Phan Rak Maew,' has withdrawn from Khon Kaen University's medical school to focus on acting and content creation, asking for a year to pursue her entertainment career while brushing off social me

'Phan Rak Maew' Opens Up About Dropping Medical School, Takes Criticism in Stride, Asks for a Year to Find Herself
26 May Khaosod

Following the drama surrounding Phan Panthita Bunchuan, known as 'Phan Rak Maew,' a famous influencer who faced backlash on social media after accepting a job from a beauty clinic while still a medical student—which raised professional ethics concerns—she has announced her temporary withdrawal from the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University. She explained that she wants to properly focus on her work as an influencer and actress.

When meeting Phan at the premiere of the film 'Term 4' at Paragon Cineplex on the 5th floor of Siam Paragon, she opened up about her decision: "It's a decision I've thought through carefully for quite a long time, and it was really difficult to announce because I have many younger fans who see me as an inspiration. I wanted to communicate this to them as carefully as possible. In the end, it became a decision everyone approved of, so I chose to pause my studies here."

When asked if her main reason was wanting to take on work because of scheduling conflicts: "Yes, I wanted to work in the influencer and acting fields—smaller acting roles that suit me. At first I thought I could handle both, but when it came down to it, I realized that kind of work requires intense focus, especially roles like these."

Asked what year she's dropping: "I'm currently completing first year and moving into second year, but I'm dropping for now."

Did she consult with many people? "A lot, really. Family and adults who are worried about my future. But I myself don't know what my future will be, but right now what I'm doing makes me very happy and excited about meeting seniors, the production team, and fans. So I wanted to try giving this role my all."

But how long can she pause medical school? "Actually, I'm not entirely sure. For now, I want to try taking things year by year to see how this year goes. If I'm happy, maybe I'll make a decision about the future."

How much work has come in for Phan this year? "For me, a lot. Especially with the film—it's been a childhood dream. This is something I've wanted to do since I was young. As a kid, I wanted to audition and do things like this, but living in another province, I didn't have the opportunity. When this opportunity came, I wanted to grab it with everything I have. If work comes in, I want to take it all."

There's been drama since you posted explaining why you didn't study and work simultaneously, since others can do it. People are comparing you. How do you feel? "Actually, I'm okay with people thinking that others can do it. Because everyone's path in life is different. I really respect people who can do both—they're amazing. As for me, I'll give my best in this role and ask everyone to cheer me on and give me strength. Because I'm just one person, an ordinary person fighting for my own dreams."

Has it been demoralizing? "There might be some, but I feel like it's just their opinion. Sometimes I don't know if the film will be well-received. Some people might like it, some might not. It depends on each person's preference."

Are people still mocking or criticizing you now? "Right now I'm trying to read as little as possible, yeah, because it's stressful. And if I see the seniors, I might have bad energy, so I'm trying to avoid it."

So Phan is also toxic when it comes to social media consumption? "Well..."

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Influencer 'Pen Rak Maew' Opens Up About Dropping Out of Medical School, Takes Criticism in Stride, Asks for a Year to Find Herself

Medical student influencer Pen Rak Maew withdrew from Khon Kaen University's Faculty of Medicine to pursue acting and social media work full-time, saying she needs a year to fully commit to her childhood dreams.

Influencer 'Pen Rak Maew' Opens Up About Dropping Out of Medical School, Takes Criticism in Stride, Asks for a Year to Find Herself
26 May Khaosod

Following the social media backlash over professional ethics regarding her work with a beauty clinic as a medical student, influencer Pen Panthita Bounchuay, known as 'Pen Rak Maew,' announced her temporary withdrawal from Khon Kaen University's Faculty of Medicine to focus on her influencer and acting career. At the premiere of the film "Term 4" at Paragon Cineplex, she opened up about the decision, explaining that it was carefully considered and discussed with family, adults, and various parties. She stated that she wanted to give her full commitment to acting and influencer work, which she has dreamed of since childhood, as balancing both commitments proved too demanding. Currently in her second year, she emphasized that she is trying to enjoy this year and make decisions about the future based on how things develop. When asked about negative comments comparing her situation to others who manage both, she responded that everyone's path is different and that she respects those who can do both. She acknowledged that criticism does affect her but tries to minimize reading negative comments to maintain positive energy. She expressed her determination to fully commit to her current projects, including film work, and asked for support and encouragement from everyone.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Community

📢 Announcement of the Winners of the Elephant Naming Contest 🎉

🎉Congratulations to all winners 🎉 *Terms and conditions are as determined by the company. *The team will contact you directly to arrange prize redemption.

26 May Thailand.go.th Issues

🎉Congratulations to all winners 🎉 *Terms and conditions are as determined by the company. *The team will contact you directly to arrange prize redemption.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Why Foreigners Are Choosing Thailand: The Kingdom's Most Popular Destinations for Expats and Digital Nomads

From Bangkok's vibrant neighbourhoods to tranquil coastal retreats, Thailand's strategic location, affordable living, and welcoming infrastructure are drawing a growing wave of foreign residents....

26 May Thailand.go.th Issues

From Bangkok's vibrant neighbourhoods to tranquil coastal retreats, Thailand's strategic location, affordable living, and welcoming infrastructure are drawing a growing wave of foreign residents....

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Support Pours in for Two Thai Rescue Workers Who Experienced Fatigue and Physical Distress During Mission to Help Seven Trapped in Laos Cave

Two Thai rescue workers were withdrawn after experiencing fatigue and dizziness during efforts to rescue seven miners trapped in a Laotian cave since May 19, as water levels dropped and teams established contact with the final chamber.

Support Pours in for Two Thai Rescue Workers Who Experienced Fatigue and Physical Distress During Mission to Help Seven Trapped in Laos Cave
26 May Khaosod

On May 26, Manas Artmongkron, a representative from the Saiyathar Saphan Bun Rescue Association in Si Songkhram District, Nakhon Phanom Province, provided an update on the mission to rescue seven miners trapped in a Laotian cave since May 19. The team reported significant progress, with water levels dropped nearly two meters after installing additional pumps and establishing communications to the final chamber where the trapped individuals are believed to be located. Despite the positive developments, two of the six front-line rescuers began experiencing dizziness and abnormal physical responses during the operation. Prioritizing team safety, commanders immediately withdrew these workers to a secure area for rest and physical evaluation before resuming rescue efforts the next morning. The team expressed continued hope and determination, thanking all supporting organizations and medical staff from Chaiyasomboon Hospital who provided around-the-clock assistance. Artmongkron clarified that the workers had not lost consciousness or been in any accident, but were simply exhausted from three days of intense operations involving both cave exploration and supply runs conducted simultaneously.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Travelers From High-risk Ebola Countries to Face Mandatory 21-Days Quarantine, says Phuket Official

Phuket authorities will impose a mandatory 21-day quarantine for travelers from high-risk Ebola countries, citing the province's role as an international gateway despite no confirmed cases in Thailand.

Travelers From High-risk Ebola Countries to Face Mandatory 21-Days Quarantine, says Phuket Official
26 May The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Phuket, Thailand — Authorities in Phuket have announced heightened precautionary measures against Ebola, stressing that while no cases have been detected in Thailand, the province must act as a frontline defense due to its role as an international gateway, which means a roughly three week mandatory quarantine period for people arriving from high risk countries, […] Travelers From High-risk Ebola Countries to Face Mandatory 21-Days Quarantine, says Phuket Official -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Minibus from Phuket Runs Off Road in Trang

A Hat Yai–Phuket minibus veered off the road near Ban Nong Rom Muang in Trang's Kalase Subdistrict early Tuesday morning, prompting rescue teams to respond to the scene.

Minibus from Phuket Runs Off Road in Trang
26 May The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Phuket – At approximately 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday (May 26th), rescue teams from Sawang Phakdee Foundation, Wang Wiset unit, responded to an accident involving a Hat Yai–Phuket route minibus that veered off the road in Trang. The incident occurred near Ban Nong Rom Muang in Kalase Subdistrict. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene and […] Minibus from Phuket Runs Off Road in Trang -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

The Legendary Pigeon Feeder Refuses to Stop: Ignores Court Order, Scales Fence and Destroys Neighbor's Property, Continues Harassment Even After Leaving Police Detention

A 76-year-old woman ignored a court order and continued damaging her neighbor's property in Bang Buathong despite police mediation and compensation agreements, with security cameras capturing her trespassing and vandalizing the fence repeat

The Legendary Pigeon Feeder Refuses to Stop: Ignores Court Order, Scales Fence and Destroys Neighbor's Property, Continues Harassment Even After Leaving Police Detention
26 May Khaosod

On May 26, 2025, a 60-year-old woman filed a complaint at Bang Buathong Police Station against 76-year-old Prapaisri (nicknamed the "Pigeon Feeder" by villagers) for her disruptive behavior of feeding pigeons and stray cats throughout the neighborhood. Despite residents appealing to the Administrative Court, which issued an order prohibiting her from feeding animals in the community, her behavior has escalated.

Most recently, Prapaisri scaled the neighbor's gate fence and vandalized the property. The victim recorded video evidence of the trespassing. Police called Prapaisri in for mediation, and she agreed to compensate 10,990 baht for damages to the water pump and wooden fence.

However, upon returning home from police detention at 6:30 p.m., the victim discovered the fence had been damaged again. Security camera footage showed Prapaisri attempting to climb the fence while the victim was filing another complaint. Neighbors also provided video clips showing Prapaisri continuing to feed pigeons on rooftops, climbing ladders to damage security cameras, and falling from a ladder during one incident.

The victim, Ms. Jarupa, reported that the fence was first damaged on April 25, 2024, resulting in a 2,000 baht fine for the perpetrator on May 13, 2024. A second incident occurred on May 17, 2024, when the perpetrator again trespassed and left the water running. Today's compensation was 10,990 baht for the pump and fence damages.

The victim expressed living in constant fear, waking each morning to check for vehicle damage, garbage, or cat feces. She has installed security cameras and states she will file another complaint if further incidents occur. Despite the court order and municipal directives, Prapaisri continues her daily animal feeding routine, becoming increasingly isolated from neighbors who no longer speak to her.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Declan Rice Opens Up After Former Club West Ham Relegated to Championship

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice expressed sadness over West Ham's relegation to the Championship after the club finished 18th in the Premier League, but said he's confident they'll bounce back soon.

Declan Rice Opens Up After Former Club West Ham Relegated to Championship
26 May Khaosod

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has posted about his feelings following West Ham United's relegation from the Premier League to the Championship, expressing confidence that the Hammers will bounce back to the top flight soon.

West Ham became the final team confirmed to drop from the Premier League to the Championship next season after finishing 18th with 39 points from 38 matches.

Following the final day of the Premier League season, social media images showed Rice appearing visibly disappointed upon learning of West Ham's relegation.

Rice later posted on his personal Instagram account to West Ham, saying: "I'm really sad to see West Ham go down. This club means so much to me. I wouldn't have gotten to where I am today without everything the club did for me. I'm confident they'll be back in the Premier League soon. I'll always support them."

Rice joined West Ham's youth academy before progressing to the first team in 2015 and helped lead the club to a major trophy in the UEFA Conference League in 2022-23, before transferring to Arsenal in 2023.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

School Posts Condolences for 12-Year-Old Grade 7 Student Fatally Abused by Stepfather

A 12-year-old Grade 7 student died from fatal abuse by her stepfather in Nong Bua Lamphu Province, with her mother also attacked and severely injured in the same incident. The stepfather has been arrested and the school posted condolences f

School Posts Condolences for 12-Year-Old Grade 7 Student Fatally Abused by Stepfather
26 May Khaosod

The official Facebook page of Ban Non Sa-At Rat Upatum School posted a message of condolence regarding the passing of their student. The school administration, faculty, staff, and students expressed their grief over the death of student Emmie Saisod, Grade 7, in light of this tragic incident. The stepfather fatally abused a 12-year-old child in Si Bun Ruang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province. The incident came to light after rescue workers posted a missing person alert for the 12-year-old girl. Shortly after, residents reported finding an injured person seeking help. Upon investigation, authorities discovered the victim was the girl's mother, who had been attacked by the stepfather with a machete and suffered severe blood loss. According to the mother's statement, the girl had been beaten to death inside their home two days earlier. Authorities have now apprehended the stepfather.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

47 Officials Immediately Removed from Position after Failed Drug Tests in Nationwide Screening of Village Chiefs and Administrators

A nationwide drug screening of village chiefs and local administrators resulted in 47 officials testing positive and being immediately removed from their positions, out of 286,553 people tested across Thailand's 878 districts.

47 Officials Immediately Removed from Position after Failed Drug Tests in Nationwide Screening of Village Chiefs and Administrators
26 May Khaosod

On May 26, 2025, Interior Department Director General Naruchai Kotsasiwhilaisakul announced that on May 25, the department launched a "clean house" operation to conduct drug screening of village chiefs, sub-district headmen, assistant headmen, village health volunteers, sub-district medical officers, territorial defense volunteers, and civil servants across all 878 districts nationwide. The operation aimed to demonstrate a strong commitment to drug prevention and suppression while raising the standards of local leaders to serve as trustworthy role models for the public.

Results showed that out of 286,553 officials tested, 286,506 tested negative for drugs while 47 tested positive, representing just 0.02 percent of all those screened. The director general stated that this operation is part of implementing the government's four-pillar security policy to comprehensively address the drug problem through four measures: SEAL border operations to intercept drug smuggling, suppression of drug networks and influential figures, treatment and rehabilitation of drug users, and local-level prevention using village chiefs, headmen, and community watch mechanisms.

The Department of Interior has established clear and strict guidelines for handling cases of local officials involved with drugs or testing positive, treating such conduct as dereliction of duty and behavior unbecoming of their position. District officers must conduct investigations and take decisive legal action. The procedure includes appointing an investigation committee, filing charges, temporary suspension during laboratory confirmation, and upon confirmed positive results, district officers must report to provincial governors who will order immediate removal from office.

The director general emphasized that all local officials must uphold moral and ethical standards and serve as positive examples for society to maintain public trust. The department will take strict, transparent, and uncompromising legal and disciplinary action against any officials involved in drug-related activities or conduct that damages the integrity and credibility of their positions.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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