Authors: Associate Professor Dr. Chumnan Thongyen
Abstract: Social media has found its place at the heart of Thai life. It influences the way Thais talk to each other, the way politics works, the direction of business, and the way we feel about each other each day. This paper examines the role of social media within Thai society, where it all started, and what it all means. This includes the major players such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LINE, and TikTok. The depth of the analysis also includes the role of the internet and other online media on the way people communicate, the words and language that are used, the politics of participation, and the way that global business works in areas such as marketing and online shopping.While doing this, it also connects people, enables civic life, boosts creativity, and helps build economic opportunities. However, it also poses challenges such as misinformation, privacy concerns, online harassment, and even addictions. This discussion balances these opportunities with the challenges, and their implications for Thai society. Further, it also discusses the possible future trends of social media in Thailand, future technologies, and their regulations. Thus, it may be said that social media also has a place in Thai society, building society, while also fostering new social, cultural, and political streams.
