Thailand video news | AOT implements facial recognition for faster checkpoints, Bangkok restaurant “Sorn” earns Michelin’s first 3-star rating for Thailand
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex covers a diverse range of stories spanning technology, crime, infrastructure, and regional updates. From the Airports of Thailand introducing facial recognition for faster checkpoints to the largest seizure of call scam equipment in Chiang Mai, these updates highlight both advancements and challenges in the country. Other highlights include Koh Samui’s long-awaited pier repairs, Bangkok’s Sorn restaurant earning Thailand’s first Michelin 3-star rating, and efforts to boost the pygmy hippo population. Additionally, Alex explores international news, including Taiwan-China tensions, Indian parliamentary disruptions over Adani allegations, and controversial deportations of Cambodian activists. Stay tuned for these stories and more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Indian Parliament Faces Disruptions Over Adani Allegations
India’s parliament was temporarily suspended as opposition lawmakers demanded discussions over bribery allegations involving the Adani Group. U.S. authorities accused Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, and Adani Green’s managing director of a $265 million bribery scheme for Indian solar contracts and misleading U.S. investors. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi called for Gautam Adani’s arrest, accusing Prime Minister Modi’s government of shielding the business tycoon, claims the BJP denies. The BJP stated it has no obligation to defend Adani, emphasising that the law will take its course.
China Warns Taiwan Amid President’s U.S. Stopover
China has warned against Taiwan’s independence efforts ahead of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s trip to Hawaii and the Pacific. Beijing reiterated its claim over Taiwan and vowed to defeat “secessionist” attempts, urging the U.S. not to send “wrong signals” regarding Taiwan’s independence. Taiwan, in turn, has stated that its people alone will determine their future and has bolstered its defence with air drills in response to Chinese military patrols involving 19 aircraft and warships near the island. China may use the trip as a pretext for military exercises near Taiwan, raising regional tensions. Taiwan’s presidential office condemned any potential Chinese drills as provocative, while Beijing called Lai’s U.S. transits violations of the one-China principle.
Thailand Deports Cambodian Activists Amid Criticism
Thailand deported six Cambodian activists facing treason charges for Facebook comments critical of their government, sparking human rights concerns. The activists, linked to the opposition Cambodian National Rescue Party, were returned to Cambodia on November 24, where they face up to 10 years in prison. Rights groups criticised the deportation, citing risks of inhumane treatment in Cambodia’s overcrowded prisons. The charges stem from their criticism of the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Area (CLV-DTA) agreement, accusing it of favouring foreign interests and compromising Cambodian sovereignty. While Cambodia’s government withdrew from the agreement in September, protests against it resulted in nearly 100 arrests.
American live streamer 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 offensive behaviour, sparking debates about “nuisance influencers.” Indicted for causing a commotion at a convenience store, Ismael is also under a departure ban. His provocative stunts, often harassing locals in Asia for online fame, have led to bans from multiple social media platforms and public outrage. Recent incidents include desecrating a South Korean monument, taunting Japanese commuters about Hiroshima, and trespassing in Osaka. His actions reflect a broader frustration in Asia with foreigners exploiting local customs for clicks, amid rising reports of bad tourist behaviour.
