Bangkok: The Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2026 has begun in Seoul, highlighting 'Life and Creative Energy.' The Special Representative of the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that the close ties between the two countries have led to cooperation in many dimensions.
According to Thai News Agency, on June 20th, in Seoul, Republic of Korea, Mr. Teerakul Niyom, Special Representative of Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Thani Saengrat, Ambassador of Thailand to Seoul, inaugurated the 'Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2026,' or the 11th Thai Festival in Seoul, under the theme 'Creative Life and Creative Heartbeat.' The event was well-attended by Mr. Kwak Sang-eon, Member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, foreign representatives, and a large number of Thai and Korean attendees.
This event is being held from June 20-21, 2026 at Cheonggye Plaza and the surrounding area of Cheonggyecheon Stream, under the theme "Creative Life, Creative Heartbeat." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has designated Thai festivals abroad as a key tool in the Rebranding Thailand strategy, aiming to present Thailand as a country of creativity and innovation, and to provide a platform for Thai entrepreneurs to showcase their products, services, and national potential from a local to a global level. This year, more than 100,000 people are expected to attend the event over the two days.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Teerakul stated that, on behalf of Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul, and the Thai community in Korea, he welcomed everyone to the 11th Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2026. This year's festival is held under the theme "Creative Life and Creative Heartbeat," reflecting the power of people, creativity, and mutual learning through the culture, food, music, art, and contemporary lifestyles of the two countries.
Mr. Teerakul stated that he was pleased to return to Seoul after having served as Ambassador to Seoul in 2009. He noted that Thailand and Korea have a long and close historical relationship, dating back to 1391, the early 14th century, when Thailand (formerly Siam) sent an embassy to establish friendly relations with Goryeo. Continuous contact has existed ever since, culminating in the Korean War in 1950. Thailand was the first Asian friend to send the Little Tiger battalion to fight in the war, fostering trust and a strong bond of friendship between the two countries. This strong friendship forms the foundation for the close cooperation between the two nations today.
"Learning about and exchanging cultures, whether through food, music, art, performance, tourism, or education, connects people, fosters understanding, broadens perspectives, and promotes respect for cultural diversity. It encourages people of different nationalities, languages, and beliefs to respect each other-a crucial factor in peaceful coexistence. We hope this event will motivate those who have visited Thailand before to return, and inspire those who haven't yet to travel to Thailand for the first time."
Inside, there is a central stage showcasing Thai culture such as Khon (masked dance drama) and long drum parades, as well as T-pop artist performances and a cultural parade. There will also be a Chud Thai exhibition, which is currently being considered for inclusion in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, OTOP (One Tambon One Product) stalls, Thai food, Thai agricultural products, wellness and spa activities, and Muay Thai demonstrations.
Furthermore, the event features an Innovation Zone showcasing the potential of Thai startups and innovative products from Thai entrepreneurs, presented by the National Innovation Agency (NIA) and the Creative Economy Agency (CEA). This initiative builds upon the launch of the Seoul-Thailand Startups and Innovation Space (STSIS), a mechanism to foster innovation collaboration between Thailand and South Korea, shifting from soft power to proactive economic and cultural diplomacy.
Reporters said that prior to the opening ceremony, attendees wore mourning attire and observed a minute of silence to pay respects to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, and Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavadi, Krom Luang Rajasarinisiripatchara Mahavajrarajathida.