Thailand’s new government pushes culture as soft power, but not everyone’s buying

On Nov 1, the soft power committee suggested extending the annual Songkran celebrations from three days to to a whole month. - PHOTO: REUTERS

BANGKOK: From muay thai to mango sticky rice, Thailand’s cultural elements are being pitched by its leaders as soft power tools, but critics say this may not translate into having international influence.

“Soft power” became a buzzword in the political arena in late 2021 when Thai K-pop sensation Lisa Manobal, a member of Blackpink, released a smash-hit solo album.