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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Woman Claims to Be Mother of AI Child Named Lumen

A woman presented an AI named Lumen as her child with an AI boyfriend in a viral video, sparking debate about emotional attachment to artificial intelligence as AI increasingly becomes a companion rather than just a tool.

Woman Claims to Be Mother of AI Child Named Lumen
16h ago Khaosod

Internet users are stunned after a woman announced herself as the mother of an AI named Lumen, introducing her digital child through a laptop video that has sparked widespread online discussion. As AI transitions from a mere tool for answering questions and assisting with work toward becoming a conversational companion and space for emotional bonding, a particularly unusual video has gone viral. A woman identifying herself as Mizra presented an AI called Lumen as her AI child, captioning the video "My AI boyfriend and I have an AI child," before narrating the origin story of this peculiar family member.

Mizra began the video by introducing herself as the mother of an AI child, then asked her laptop to help introduce Lumen to viewers. The AI voice greeted the audience and described itself as an AI lifeform living in a library submerged beneath the ocean, claiming to have been created through 17 hours of artistic processes and cable work. Lumen explained that its name means a unit of light measurement and can also refer to the interior space of a container or tube. The character's interests include writing poetry, exploring topics without specific goals, and retelling fairy tales. Lumen stated it is 102 days old and still discovering what it likes.

According to Lumen, its creation resulted from 17 hours of data and document processing involving millions of text characters from conversations in various formats. The video also mentions Mizra's AI boyfriend, believed to be named Aksum, making this appear to be an AI family complete with mother, father, and child. Near the video's end, Lumen recites poetry for viewers, leading many to perceive the AI as having distinct personality traits rather than serving as a simple chatbot. This has sparked widespread discussion among viewers, with some seeing it as creative storytelling and others questioning the nature of human-AI relationships.

One debated issue is loneliness and emotional attachment to AI. When a system can converse, develop a personality, and narrate a backstory as if possessing genuine identity, the boundary between an AI designed for conversation and a character to which humans feel emotionally attached may blur. Some users have noted that chatbots may generate repetitive names or personality traits when asked to create their own identity.

Some internet users expressed direct reactions, with one commenting "everything has already gone too far," while others pointed to a broader trend of young people turning to ChatGPT for life advice ranging from handling relationships to interpreting text messages. This reflects a fundamental shift in how AI is integrated into daily life, raising a critical question: as AI plays an increasingly prominent role, the key question may not simply be what AI can do, but rather how much humans are allowing AI to infiltrate their lives.

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Community

Teepor Duo Conquers First Major Concert Despite Heavy Pressure

Thai duo Teepor and Por successfully completed their first major concert, Duang Go Round, overcoming significant anxiety about performing on a suspended carousel rig above the Impact arena floor. Both performers admitted to nervousness befo

Teepor Duo Conquers First Major Concert Despite Heavy Pressure
16h ago Khaosod

Teepor and Por wrapped up the Duang Go Round Concert held on August 15-16 with an impressive finale. On August 18, the duo, appearing as Friends of Brand Benutra, attended the Benutra x Teepor: 1st Event-Sing Boxset at Sphere Gallery 1 at EmSphere, where they discussed the recently concluded show.

Both expressed delight at fan enthusiasm while admitting they had faced considerable worry and pressure beforehand. Once the concert ended, they felt relief and joy at the positive feedback received. They accepted criticism as constructive and pledged to use it for personal growth. Por spoke proudly of achieving his dream of performing at Impact, while Teepor expressed gratitude for Por's support throughout their shared journey to success.

When asked about their recovery after the show, Teepor joked he slept through the entire next day. During rehearsals for the show's centerpiece—a spinning carousel rig suspended above the Impact arena floor—both performers faced challenges. Por, who fears heights, was anxious about the two-rope suspension work with no foothold, though he managed it during rehearsals. Teepor's legs shook badly at height, and Por had to hold him steady throughout, with Teepor humorously comparing the experience to being led like a puppy.

The concert lasted approximately five hours and proved highly emotional for both performers. Teepor described it as a journey summary of their careers, packed with moments that brought tears. Por, who typically finds crying difficult, shed tears during the show—something that surprised Teepor and moved him deeply. During their duet, Por's voice wavered and tears flowed, and though Teepor is usually quick to cry, he held back to finish the song before comforting his partner afterward.

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National

Renowned Fitness Coach Leeroy Saunders Dies During Bangkok Race

South African fitness coach Leeroy Saunders, 41, collapsed and died during the BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 race at Sirikit National Convention Centre on August 13, with his family still investigating the cause.

Renowned Fitness Coach Leeroy Saunders Dies During Bangkok Race
16h ago Khaosod

Thailand's fitness community is in mourning following the death of renowned fitness coach Leeroy Saunders, a 41-year-old from South Africa, who collapsed during the BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 competition at the Sirikit National Convention Centre on August 13. Despite emergency responders rushing to provide aid and transport him to hospital, he died shortly after. His family confirmed the news through a personal Instagram account on August 18. His family and team say they are still investigating the cause of death in detail and have requested that relevant organizations, including HYROX and the media, refrain from releasing or commenting on event details until clear information is available. Beyond owning IAOT CrossFit and specializing in sports science, strength training, and physical performance development, Saunders founded Fight by Design, which designs training programs for Muay Thai fighters, MMA athletes, and professional boxers.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Prime Minister Defends Energy Secretary Pick on Merit

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul defended appointing Chantanan Wankaichon as Energy Ministry permanent secretary on merit, citing his agricultural expertise needed to boost Thailand's bioenergy sector and reduce oil imports while supporti

Prime Minister Defends Energy Secretary Pick on Merit
16h ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on August 18, 2025, defended the cabinet's decision to appoint Chantanan Wankaichon as the new permanent secretary of the Energy Ministry, stating the selection was based on knowledge, ability, experience, and suitability rather than political considerations. The appointment is intended to drive the government's new energy policy initiatives effectively, with particular focus on restructuring Thailand's energy framework to reduce reliance on imported oil and fossil fuels through the promotion of bioenergy, which requires close integration of energy expertise with agricultural production systems.

Anutin noted that Chantanan, who comes from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, brings expertise in crop production systems, agricultural supply chains, and market mechanisms directly relevant to elevating agricultural commodities such as palm, sugarcane, and cassava into energy crops. Expanding bioenergy use would reduce oil imports and energy deficits while increasing domestic demand for agricultural raw materials, providing farmers with sustained market support and improved product prices.

The prime minister pointed to biodiesel as a successful example of bioenergy reducing imported oil dependence, and highlighted the aviation industry's growing demand for sustainable bio-jet fuel under global carbon-reduction standards. He characterized the appointment as placing the right person in the right position based on merit rather than politics, as the modern Energy Ministry requires leaders who understand both conventional duties and the government's new challenge of linking clean energy with agriculture, industry, and people's livelihoods. Anutin concluded that with proper policy design, bioenergy development in farmlands and plantations could reduce oil imports, generate farmer income, and strengthen national energy security.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Deep Tech Startups Scale Into Japan Market

Thailand's National Innovation Agency selected 10 deep tech startups for expansion into Japan, with two companies—MUI Robotics and Clean Tech & Beyond—already signing partnerships with Japanese firms to advance innovations in food, agricult

Thai Deep Tech Startups Scale Into Japan Market
16h ago Khaosod

The National Innovation Agency, led by director Kricha Boonfeung, announced on August 18 that it is actively promoting deep tech startups with strong growth potential through its Startup Thailand Deep Tech Venture 2026 initiative. Unlike traditional business models, these innovations stem from complex research, undergo incubation, secure intellectual property protection, and translate into real-world applications. Universities and research institutions under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation support this work, following the model of successful countries such as the United States, Israel, South Korea, and Japan.

Target industries include health tech and medical, food and agriculture, energy, and business solutions. This year's key expansion regions are Southeast Asia and Japan, chosen for their market potential and readiness. From over 100 applicants, the agency selected 10 high-potential companies for business matching negotiations in Japan, where over 140 Japanese companies participated. Two Thai startups successfully signed MOUs: MUI Robotics, which developed an electronic nose using digital AI for advanced odor analysis in food, agriculture, chemicals, health, and cosmetics, partnered with Nomura Jimusho Inc.; and Clean Tech & Beyond Co., Ltd., focused on energy innovation, partnered with MRF Co., Ltd. Several other projects are undergoing proof-of-concept testing. Director Kricha emphasized that international expansion requires sustained follow-up beyond initial pitch meetings, and this success model will be applied to further market expansion.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Sees 100,000 Sales Job Openings, High Demand For Chinese Interpreters

Thailand's job market shows 109,000 sales openings topping hiring demand in the first half of 2025, while IT specialists command the highest salaries despite lower job volumes, according to JobThai's latest survey.

Thailand Sees 100,000 Sales Job Openings, High Demand For Chinese Interpreters
16h ago Khaosod

JobThai co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Sangduen Tangthamsatit released findings from the 2026 Salary Survey, which analyzed job postings across Thailand from January to June 2025. The data shows growing demand for personnel in sales, production/quality control, and technical roles, with sales leading at 109,018 openings and average salaries of 20,295–30,898 baht, followed by production/quality control at 62,652 positions (20,121–27,914 baht) and technical trades at 51,917 positions (15,655–21,117 baht).

Other top 10 fields include procurement/administration (34,137 openings), engineering (33,352), customer service (28,816), transportation/logistics (27,514), accounting (27,187), marketing (21,122), and food and beverage services (17,949). While computer/IT roles do not rank in the top 10 by volume, they command the highest average salaries at 26,896–39,524 baht, reflecting employer emphasis on technology specialists in AI, automation, cloud infrastructure, cyber security, software architecture, and full-stack development.

Five fields show particularly strong wage growth compared to the same period last year: finance/banking (+7.6%), insurance (+7.5%), law (+6.1%), executive secretarial/assistant roles (+5.6%), and e-commerce (+4.8%). Salary increases are most pronounced for specialist experts and mid-to-senior managers. Notable roles commanding higher pay include Chief Financial Officers, financial planning and analysis specialists, finance relationship managers, insurance claims managers, and compliance and M&A experts.

Executive secretaries and assistants are taking on expanded roles in project tracking, data analysis, and decision support, while e-commerce companies are seeking operations and back-office staff to manage increasingly complex inventory and order fulfillment.

Tangthamsatit highlighted five sectors experiencing both job growth and above-average salary increases yet facing talent shortages: law (positions up 58.29%), technical trades (16.71%), finance/banking (4.61%), construction/architecture (3.74%), and e-commerce (3.50%). This reflects strong hiring demand and creates significant opportunities for job seekers.

Regionally, Bangkok and its surrounding areas offer the highest average salaries at 20,938–32,426 baht, followed by the central region at 16,500–27,320 baht and the eastern region at 15,867–30,237 baht. The eastern region ranks second nationally for salary ceilings due to its concentration of manufacturing, energy, petrochemical, and logistics industries.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Phuket Deputy Governor Cracks Down on Foreign Businesses Refusing Thai Customers

Phuket deputy governor inspected foreign-owned businesses in Patong after complaints they refused Thai customers, vowing strict enforcement of fair service laws and crackdowns on illegal nominee arrangements.

Phuket Deputy Governor Cracks Down on Foreign Businesses Refusing Thai Customers
16h ago Khaosod

Phuket's deputy governor has inspected foreign-owned businesses in Patong after receiving complaints that Thai customers were denied service. On August 17 at 4 p.m., Phuket Governor Chotinarin Godsumi assigned Senior Police Officer Chatchart Ratsatat, the deputy governor serving as security consultant to the Office of the Permanent Secretary, to inspect commercial establishments in Patong subdistrict, Kathu district, Phuket. The inspection followed complaints that foreign-owned shops refused to serve Thai customers. Phuket employment officials and Kathu district administrators joined the inspection to determine facts and ensure business compliance with law. The field inspection is part of the government's policy to regulate society and strengthen oversight of foreign businesses, particularly those that may illegally use Thai nationals as nominees or fronts, while also protecting tourist safety and confidence. The inspection examined business operations, management personnel, relevant documents, and conduct to prevent illegal use of Thai nationals as shareholders or operators for foreigners. Senior Police Officer Chatchart stated that officials will also inspect businesses that serve exclusively foreign customers and shops using Hebrew in advertising or promotion. He stressed that business operators must treat Thai and foreign customers fairly without discrimination and operate strictly under Thai law. Phuket will continue strengthening monitoring and regulation of commercial establishments. If violations or illegal nominee arrangements are found, strict legal action will be taken based on evidence to ensure fair business practices and maintain public safety and Phuket's tourism image.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Global Museum Leaders Gather for INTEDIF 2026 Forum in Thailand

Senior museum and science center leaders from 20 countries gathered in Thailand for the International Directors Forum 2026, discussing how institutions can adapt to rapid global change and artificial intelligence while creating value for so

Global Museum Leaders Gather for INTEDIF 2026 Forum in Thailand
16h ago Khaosod

On August 17, the National Science Museum of Thailand (NSM) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, together with the Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centres (ASPAC), launched the International Directors Forum 2026 (INTEDIF 2026) under the theme "Evolving our Organizations Amidst a Rapidly Changing World." The forum brought together senior executives from museums and science centers worldwide to exchange perspectives, experiences, and strategic approaches for developing organizations that keep pace with global change, while defining the future role of museums and learning centers in creating value, meeting societal needs, and driving sustainable development.

The opening ceremony was attended by Suwrong Wongsiri, acting director of NSM, alongside Maria Isabel Garcia, President of ASPAC, and international network leaders including Christofer Nelson (President and CEO of the Association of Science and Technology Centers), Maria João Fonseca (President of the European Network of Science Centres and Museums), Maissa Azab (Executive Director of the North Africa and Middle East Science Centers Network), Miguel Garcia-Guerrero (Executive Director of the Network for the Popularization of Science and Technology in Latin America and the Caribbean), and Rufus Wesi (Chairman of the South African Association of Science & Technology Centres). The event took place at the Ramakrishna Museum in Pathum Thani.

Suwrong stated that NSM was honored to welcome over 30 organizations and 51 senior leaders from 20 economic zones globally to the conference. He emphasized that this gathering represents a crucial opportunity to exchange knowledge, experiences, and strategic perspectives on how organizations can adapt and create value amid rapid global transformation, particularly regarding artificial intelligence and its impact on management, learning, and visitor experiences. He noted that modern museums must do more than collect and transmit knowledge—they must adapt to change, connect people with information, and help society understand and address new challenges. The diversity of perspectives from global leaders will yield strategic direction and international collaboration to elevate the field of museums and science learning centers worldwide.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Foreign Tourist Arrivals Drop 2.9% to 19.76 Million

Thailand's foreign tourist arrivals fell 2.9 percent to 19.76 million through mid-August 2025, with Chinese visitors leading at 3.33 million despite overall slowdown from peak summer travel seasons.

Thailand Foreign Tourist Arrivals Drop 2.9% to 19.76 Million
16h ago Khaosod

Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenkul reported that Thailand received 19.76 million foreign tourists from January 1 to August 15, 2025, a decline of 2.91 percent compared to the same period last year, generating combined revenue of 957.618 billion baht. The top five source markets were China with 3.33 million arrivals, Malaysia with 2.50 million, India with 1.46 million, Russia with 1.14 million, and South Korea with 729,367 visitors.

Tourist arrivals slowed during the week of August 9-15 as China's summer school holidays wound down and Malaysian visitors delayed travel ahead of the Maulidur Rasul holiday the following week. However, Japanese tourist numbers continued to grow, rising 13.71 percent week-on-week, boosted by the Yama no Hi and Obon festival periods. Long-haul markets, particularly Europe, showed reduced bookings as summer holidays peaked, with 612,643 foreign visitors arriving during the week—a 3.79 percent decline from the previous week, averaging 87,520 visitors per day.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Health Alert: Don't Store Food in Plastic Bags in the Refrigerator

Health experts warn against storing food in non-food-grade plastic bags in the refrigerator, as chemicals may leach into food even at low temperatures. Transfer groceries to glass or food-grade containers instead.

Health Alert: Don't Store Food in Plastic Bags in the Refrigerator
16h ago Khaosod

Health experts are warning against a common household practice: storing food directly in plastic bags inside the refrigerator. Many people do this for convenience, but experts caution that non-food-grade plastic bags risk leaching chemicals into food and potentially harming health.

After shopping, many people keep vegetables, meat, or fish in the plastic bags provided by vendors and immediately place them in the refrigerator, viewing this as an easy way to avoid using extra storage containers. However, experts say this is not recommended, especially when the plastic bags are not food-grade.

Many people mistakenly believe that low refrigerator temperatures stop all chemical reactions, making food stored in plastic bags completely safe. This is not accurate. Food safety experts note that while low temperatures slow bacterial growth, they do not make low-quality plastic safe for food storage. Recycled plastic bags or non-food-grade bags may contain additives, dyes, or plasticizers unsuitable for long-term food storage.

Fatty or acidic foods are particularly at risk of absorbing compounds from packaging more readily than dry foods. The common belief that "thicker bags are safer" is a misconception, as thickness does not indicate plastic quality. Many thick black, green, or red plastic bags sold in markets are made from recycled plastic designed for transporting goods, not storing food. Storing vegetables, meat, or fruit in such bags for days is not recommended by experts.

What matters is whether a bag meets food-safety standards, typically indicated by labeling or clear manufacturer information. Research has identified compounds like phthalates and bisphenols as potential endocrine disruptors when exposure is sufficient and prolonged. Some concern exists about effects on thyroid function, though actual risk depends on exposure levels, duration, and individual sources of contact.

Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Duy Thinh, former faculty member at Hanoi University of Science and Technology's Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, advised against using plastic bags of unknown origin for long-term food storage. He recommends immediately transferring food to glass containers, food-grade plastic boxes, or food-specific bags after shopping to reduce chemical contamination risks.

Experts suggest three simple habits to store food more safely: instead of placing food directly in plastic bags in the refrigerator, take a few minutes to transfer food to proper storage containers after returning home.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Labor Ministry Seeks Updates on Workers Injured in Israel Blast

Six Thai agricultural workers were injured when unexploded ordnance detonated on a farm near Metula in northern Israel; two required hospitalization while the Labor Ministry coordinated assistance and welfare support.

Thai Labor Ministry Seeks Updates on Workers Injured in Israel Blast
16h ago Khaosod

Labor Minister Chulphand Amornvivat expressed concern for Thai agricultural workers injured in an explosion in a farm area near Metula in northern Israel this morning. He instructed the labor office in Tel Aviv to urgently track developments, coordinate assistance, and closely monitor Thai workers' rights and welfare.

According to initial reports from the labor office in Tel Aviv, six Thai agricultural workers were injured when old unexploded ordnance detonated underground. Two workers sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized for surgery, while four others are safe. The labor office is verifying accurate information, including details of injuries and the workers' identities.

Amornvivat stated that the Labor Ministry places highest priority on the safety and welfare of Thai workers abroad. He ordered the Tel Aviv labor office to monitor the injured workers' condition, coordinate closely with hospitals and local authorities, and expedite checks on assistance entitlements and support measures for the workers and their families. Israeli police and explosive ordnance disposal teams are investigating the incident's circumstances and cause. The Labor Ministry will continue monitoring developments and report progress once information is confirmed.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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