Thailand’s vibrant entertainment sector is well-known worldwide, and a new music trend is rapidly gaining traction. Notably, Thailand’s modern entertainment culture is significantly impacted by popular trends in the world, mainly Western pop culture. Furthermore, the internet and social media have played an important role in modern Thai culture, with younger generations flocking to platforms such as Instagram, X, and YouTube to express themselves.
Thailand’s vibrant nightlife, which includes upbeat pubs, clubs, live musicians, and Thai online casinos, has propelled the country to the forefront of regional entertainment. The latest movement to enter the scene is k-pop (Korean Pop), which has grown in popularity over the last several decades, primarily in East and Southeast Asia, including South Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Thai-Based K-Pop Stars
The sweeping k-pop boom in Thailand has created a niche for iconic singers and dancers that are fashion-forward, stylish, and trend-setting. As a result, many talented young people are vying for superstar status and to become well-known public personalities. Some of the most accomplished names in the entertainment sector are:
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Nichkhun
Our list must begin with the well-known Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul, who is widely regarded as Thailand’s k-pop pioneer. Nichkhun, often known as the Thai Prince, was born in America but raised in Thailand. The Thai American songwriter, singer, actor, model, and rapper was originally a part of the 2PM boy band until going solo in 2018. His famous songs include “Story of …”, “HOME”, “Stay In”, and “Mars”.
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Blackpink’s Lisa
Lisa Manobal was born in 1997 in Buriram, Thailand, and is the most influential k-pop celebrity on social media, having over 50 million Instagram followers. She is a global sensation and the sweetheart of Thailand’s entertainment scene. She rose to prominence as a singer and rapper in the well-known Blackpink group, but she has also achieved significant success in modeling. She is presently working with global brand heavyweights such as Samsung, BVLGARI, Celine, MAC, and Moonshot.
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Bam Bam
Fans call Kunpimook Bhuwakul, the legendary vocalist and rapper from the GOT7 boyband, “Bam Bam.” Born the same year as Lisa, the two have been friends since childhood despite their successful careers in entertainment. Bam Bam had always wanted to be a superstar since childhood. Therefore, he began performing at a young age, most notably as a member of the dance group ‘We Zaa Cool’ and competing in the ‘Rain Cover Dance’ national competition. He began his solo career in 2021, and his charming and hilarious demeanor continues to captivate his audience.
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Ten
Thailand was first introduced to NCT, a 23-member boy band, in 2016. One of the most remarkable members was Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul, known by his stage name, Ten. He was born in 1996 with a natural flair for dance, so it was no surprise when he won the ‘Teen Superstar’ competition at fifteen. His most memorable moment was during the ‘Hit The Stage’ South Korean competition, where his incredible dance skills became viral. Since then, he’s become a Thai k-pop sensation.
Final Word
These are just a few of the titles that are now ruling the Thai k-pop entertainment culture charts. Many more are thriving, including Minnie from (G)I-DLE, Sorn from CLC, Natty, Jerin, and many others.
