45-year-old illegal Thai migrant worker dies while awaiting deportation from South Korea

13 Sept 08:49 Key points summarised by AI

A 45-year-old illegal Thai migrant worker, detained in South Korea for deportation after 8 years without a permit, died last week from unknown causes.
The man, who had a history of psychiatric treatment, was hospitalized with a 40oC fever and lost consciousness after exhibiting self-harm behavior by pounding his head against a wall.
South Korea is reintroducing the K-ETA registration system for all foreigners arriving on Jeju Island, effective August 19th, to screen visa-exempt visitors.
The reintroduction follows a surge in illegal Thai immigrants who exploited a previous K-ETA waiver, intended to boost tourism, to enter South Korea for unlawful work.
Authorities will closely evaluate the K-ETA system's impact to ensure it effectively curbs illegal immigration without adversely affecting the island's post-pandemic tourism recovery.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.