Promoting the kingdom

Korean pop fans are familiar with Nichkhun Horvejkul as a Thai member of Korean boy band 2PM, but from tomorrow they will also know him in  another role - as a presenter for Thailand's tourism campaign.

The pop star will appear on Korean television tomorrow in a TV campaign entitled "Come to Thailand, Let's Take a Break" by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

The TV commercial portrays the pop star's lifestyle as he holidays in Phuket. Fans will see him enjoy fresh seafood on a white beach, dive in a calm turquoisecoloured sea, tee off and visit intriguing festivals.

The Bt25million campaign is aimed at presenting Thailand's natural wonders, spectacular attractions and unique culture. TAT officially announced its Come to Thailand campaign on Wednesday.

Besides the TV commercial, there is a website www.Nichkhunbreak.com and booklets providing information on Thailand for young tourists. Nichkhun's Korean fans will also have a chance to join in a lucky draw to win a special trip to Phuket with him,  scheduled for October.

"This year's tourism prospects are not bright due to the economic crisis, typeA (H1N1) flu and the political situation. We're launching our new campaign 'Come to Thailand, Let's Take a Break' to promote Thailand as a tourist destination with a variety of holiday experiences," says Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT deputy governor for marketing communications.

"As for a new presenter, Nichkhun is the best choice. He's Thai and has built a reputation as a member of popular band 2PM, so he can communicate directly to our target group and encourage more young people in Korea to discover our country."

Says Nichkhun: "I love Thailand and I feel honoured to be selected by TAT. This is a chance for me to present our unique culture and beautiful tourist attractions. In Korea, I always talk to friends about the beautiful turquoise sea and delectable food in Thailand."

With Asia - and Thailand - riding a strong wave of Kpop, Nichkhun has become a reputable Thai singer of 2PM. Youngsters are crazy over him and his band mates, so presenting a different culture isn't going to pose a big problem for him in Korea - after all he believes that music speaks the same language.

"Korean fans are cute," adds Nichkhun. "They gave me a warm welcome though I could¬n't speak Korean at first. My friends helped to teach me Korean and took pains to ex¬plain their culture. Now I can speak Korean and understand what my fans are saying - it eliminates the gap between us."

For more information visit www.Nichkhunbreak.com