# Thailand

> country in Southeast Asia

**Wikidata**: [Q869](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q869)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thailand)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/thailand

## Summary

Thailand is a country in Asia.[1] The official language is Thai.[2]

## Summary
Thailand is a sovereign state and unitary constitutional monarchy located in Mainland Southeast Asia. Formerly known as Siam, it is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and a member of the United Nations, with its capital and most populous city in Bangkok.

## Key Facts
- **Official Name:** ราชอาณาจักรไทย (Ratcha Anachak Thai / Kingdom of Thailand).
- **Area:** 513,119.5 square kilometers.
- **Capital:** Bangkok (capital since 1767; current status since 1932).
- **Government:** Unitary state, constitutional monarchy, and parliamentary monarchy.
- **Head of State:** King Vajiralongkorn (since October 13, 2016).
- **Head of Government:** Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra (since August 16, 2024); Phumtham Wechayachai served as Acting Prime Minister in 2024 and 2025.
- **Official Language:** Thai.
- **Currency:** Baht (divided into satang; 5 and 50 satang coins exist).
- **Population:** 66,188,503 (2017 resident register); 2022 estimates include 32,270,615 males and 33,819,860 females.
- **Major Religions:** Buddhism (92.5%), Islam (5.4%), Christianity (1.2%), Hinduism (0.006%), and Sikhism (0.002%).
- **International Borders:** Shares land borders with Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Myanmar.
- **Highest Point:** Doi Inthanon (2,565 meters).
- **Time Zone:** UTC+07:00 (Asia/Bangkok).
- **Driving Side:** Left; railway traffic also operates on the left.
- **Mains Voltage:** 220V at 50Hz (Plug types: NEMA 1-15, NEMA 5-15, Europlug).

## FAQs
**What are the historical names and origins of Thailand?**
Thailand was historically known as Siam and was preceded by the Rattanakosin Kingdom (1782–1932), the Thonburi Kingdom (1767–1782), and the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Its traditional inception is often traced back to the Sukhothai Kingdom in 1238.

**What international organizations is Thailand a member of?**
Thailand is a member of the United Nations (since 1946), ASEAN (founding member since 1967), the World Trade Organization, APEC, and Interpol. It also participates in the Asian Development Bank, the World Health Organization, and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

**What are the primary demographics and languages used in Thailand?**
The population is 97.5% Thai, with significant ethnic groups including Isan, Lao, Thai Chinese, Khmer, Mon, and various hill tribes like the Hmong and Akha. While Thai is the official language, regional languages such as Isan, Northern Thai, Southern Thai, and various Malay dialects are widely used.

**What are the main components of Thailand's economy and infrastructure?**
Thailand has a nominal GDP of approximately $495–505 billion and operates the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Major infrastructure includes the Bangkok Metropolitan Region's rapid transit (Sukhumvit and Silom Lines), the Suvarnabhumi Airport, and a developing high-speed rail project.

## Why It Matters
Thailand serves as a central geopolitical and economic pillar of Southeast Asia. As a founding member of ASEAN, it plays a vital role in regional integration and trade liberalization. Its economy is one of the largest in the region, driven by robust industrial sectors, such as automobile manufacturing (Thai Rung Union Car, General Motors Thailand), and a world-leading tourism industry that attracts over 32 million visitors annually. Culturally, Thailand’s "soft power" is immense, with its cuisine, martial arts, and entertainment media exerting significant influence across global markets.

## Notable For
- **Muay Thai:** A combat sport and martial art characterized by stand-up striking and clinching techniques.
- **Thai Cuisine:** Globally famous for its unique flavor profiles, featuring dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Kung, and various curries (Green, Red, Massaman, and Phanaeng).
- **Historical Landmarks:** Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Historic Town of Sukhothai and the Ayutthaya Historical Park.
- **Biodiversity:** Features unique wildlife and protected areas like the Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary and Khao Sok National Park.
- **Entertainment Industry:** A major producer of "Lakorn" (television soap operas) and internationally acclaimed films like *Bad Genius*, *Ong-Bak*, and *Shutter*.
- **Animal Breeds:** Origin of the Siamese, Korat, and Khao Manee cat breeds, as well as the Thai Ridgeback and Thai Bangkaew dog breeds.

## Body

### History and Governance
Thailand's political history is marked by a series of kingdoms, beginning with Sukhothai in 1238, followed by Ayutthaya, Thonburi (1768), and the Rattanakosin Kingdom (1782). The Siamese Revolution of 1932 transitioned the country from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The current 2560 Buddhist Era Constitution (2017) governs the state. The National Assembly of Thailand serves as the legislative body, while the Supreme Court of Thailand is the highest judicial authority. The King, currently Vajiralongkorn, is the Head of State and resides at the Grand Palace. The government is managed by the Cabinet of Thailand, with the Prime Minister serving as the head of the executive branch.

### Geography and Environment
Thailand is part of Mainland Southeast Asia and the Malay Peninsula. It is divided into 76 provinces and the special administrative area of Bangkok. Major geographical features include the Chao Phraya River, the Mun River, and the Mekong River which forms part of the border with Laos. The country features several mountain ranges, such as the Daen Lao Range and the Phuket Range. Significant islands include Phuket, Ko Chang, Ko Tao, and Ko Lipe. Thailand maintains numerous national parks, including Khao Kho, Thap Lan, and Mu Ko Lanta.

### Economy and Industry
The economy is characterized by a mix of state-owned enterprises and private conglomerates. Key organizations include:
- **Financial Institutions:** Bank of Thailand (central bank), Krungthai Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, and the Government Savings Bank.
- **Conglomerates:** Central Group, Siam Cement (SCG), and BEC World.
- **Energy and Industry:** PTT Public Company Limited, Thai Oil, and WHA Utilities and Power.
- **Agriculture and Food:** Thai Union Group (seafood) and Tao Kae Noi (snacks).
- **Telecommunications:** True Corporation and DTAC.

### Culture and Society
Thai culture is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions, which influence the Buddhist calendar and public holidays like Magha Puja and Vesak.
- **Cuisine:** Traditional dishes include *som tam* (papaya salad), *tom kha kai* (chicken coconut soup), *phat kaphrao* (basil stir-fry), and *khao niao mamuang* (mango sticky rice). Fermented seasonings like *pla ra* and *nam pla* (fish sauce) are staples.
- **Arts:** Traditional performances include *Khon* (masked dance) and *Menora*. The music scene ranges from traditional *Mor Lam* to modern Thai Pop and rock bands like Bodyslam, Carabao, and Silly Fools.
- **Sports:** Beyond Muay Thai, Thailand is active in association football (Thai League 1), badminton, and snooker. Notable athletes include Ratchanok Intanon (badminton), Alexander Albon (Formula 1), and Paradorn Srichaphan (tennis).

### Media and Entertainment
Thailand has a prolific media landscape. Major newspapers include the *Bangkok Post* and *Thairath*. The television industry is known for its "Lakorn" dramas and reality shows like *The Face Thailand* and *Drag Race Thailand*.
- **Cinema:** Notable directors include Apichatpong Weerasethakul (*Tropical Malady*, *Memoria*), Banjong Pisanthanakun (*Pee Mak*, *The Medium*), and Prachya Pinkaew (*Ong-Bak*).
- **Notable Films:** *Tom-Yum-Goong*, *Bad Genius*, *Shutter*, *The Love of Siam*, and *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies*.

### Notable People
- **Royalty:** King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), King Mongkut (Rama IV), and Princess Sirivannavari.
- **Politicians:** Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck Shinawatra, Abhisit Vejjajiva, and Prem Tinsulanonda.
- **Entertainers:** Lisa (Lalisa Manobal of Blackpink), Tony Jaa (martial artist), Mario Maurer (actor), and BamBam (singer).
- **Activists:** Arnon Nampa, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, and Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal.

### Infrastructure and Technology
Thailand’s infrastructure includes an extensive road network (Asian Highway Network) and a growing rail system. Bangkok’s transit is supported by the BTS Skytrain, MRT (Blue, Purple, and Yellow Lines), and the Airport Rail Link. The country utilizes the Thaicom series of communications satellites for telecommunications. Public health is managed by the Ministry of Public Health, with major facilities like Siriraj Hospital and Chulalongkorn University supporting medical research and education.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/place/thailand)
2. [The World Factbook](https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/th.html)
3. [Source](http://www.nso.go.th/sites/2014en/Survey/social/religion/SurveyOnConditions/2018/Full%20Report.pdf)
4. [Source](http://www.ratchaburi.go.th/)
5. The World Factbook
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. CiNii Research
8. [Source](https://data.iana.org/time-zones/tzdb-2021e/asia)
9. [Interpol](https://www.interpol.int/Member-countries/World)
10. [Source](https://www.interpol.int/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Asia-South-Pacific/THAILAND)
11. [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons](https://www.opcw.org/about-opcw/member-states/)
12. [Source](https://www.opcw.org/about-us/member-states/thailand)
13. [International Hydrographic Organization](https://www.iho.int/srv1/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=452&lang=en)
14. [Source](http://www.unesco.org/eri/cp/ListeMS_Indicators.asp)
15. [Source](http://www.upu.int/en/the-upu/member-countries.html)
16. [Source](https://www.upu.int/en/Universal-Postal-Union/About-UPU/Member-Countries?csid=-1&cid=297)
17. [Source](https://www.itu.int/online/mm/scripts/gensel8)
18. [Source](https://public.wmo.int/en/members/thailand)
19. [Source](https://www.who.int/choice/demography/by_country/en/)
20. [Source](https://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/about-us/wco-members/list-of-members-with-membership-date.pdf)
21. [Source](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_parties_to_the_Treaty_on_the_Non-Proliferation_of_Nuclear_Weapons)
22. [Source](https://www.ncnk.org/sites/default/files/content/resources/publications/NCNK_Issue_Brief_DPRK_Diplomatic_Relations.pdf)
23. [Source](https://bangkok.mae.ro/node/221)
24. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
25. [Source](https://unstats.un.org/unsd/methodology/m49/)
26. FIPS 10-4
27. MusicBrainz
28. [Human Development Report. 2022](https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/human-development-index#/indicies/HDI)
29. World Bank Open Data
30. [Department of Provincial Administration](http://stat.dopa.go.th/stat/statnew/statTDD/)
31. [1960 Thailand Population Census](http://service.nso.go.th/nso/search/show_picture_main.jsp?id_book=1000006601)
32. 1970 Thailand Population and Housing Census
33. [1980 Thailand Population and Housing Census](http://service.nso.go.th/nso/search/show_picture_main.jsp?id_book=0000006470)
34. [1990 Thailand Population and Housing Census](http://service.nso.go.th/nso/search/show_picture_main.jsp?id_book=0000006604)
35. 2000 Thailand Population and Housing Census
36. [2010 Thailand Population and Housing Census](http://popcensus.nso.go.th/report/WholeKingdom_T.pdf)
37. 1947 Thailand Population Census
38. 1937 Thailand Population Census
39. 1929 Thailand Population Census
40. 1919 Thailand Population Census
41. [Source](http://stat.dopa.go.th/stat/statnew/upstat_age_disp.php)
42. [Source](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI)
43. [Source](http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS)
44. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
45. National Statistical Office
46. The National Terminology Database for Irish
47. [Source](https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/freedom-world-2017)
48. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20170210083750/https://basementgeographer.com/right-hand-traffic-versus-left-hand-traffic/)
49. [National Statistical Office](http://web.nso.go.th/en/census/poph/data/090913_MajorFindings_10.pdf)
50. [World Bank](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.MKTP.CD)