Bangkok, 1 July 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and POP MART jointly hosted a special “Welcome Ceremony of LABUBU” activity, marking the adorable furry doll’s four-day trip to explore Thailand’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks.
The activity forms part of next year celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.
The “Welcome Ceremony of LABUBU” activity started today when the LABUBU mascot boarded Hainan Airlines Flight HU429 from Beijing and arrived in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to a grand welcome presided over by Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, Minister of Tourism and Sports.
Also in attendance were Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor; Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pheuk-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police; Mr. Jiang Peizhang, Second Secretary, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China; Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific; Mr. Kittipong Kittikachorn, General Manager of Suvarnabhumi Airport; Mr. Manatase Annawat, President of Thailand Privilege Card; Mr. Qian Daizhe, Vice President Travel and Leisure Business of Qunar, and Ms. Chen Xiaoyun, Vice President of POP MART International Group Limited.
Mr. Sermsak said “The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is promoting the positive image of Thailand in line with the government’s ease of travel policy. This includes the upcoming 60-day visa-free entry for citizens of 93 countries, including China. I am delighted to see TAT and POP MART have co-branded to bring LABUBU to engage in the diverse and unique activities in Thailand, which will certainly help boost tourism to Thailand.”
At the airport welcome ceremony, the LABUBU mascot was presented with the honorary title “Amazing Thailand Experience Explorer” as the beloved doll is scheduled to explore the five must-do activities in Bangkok. These include Must East Thai food, Must See Thai cultural show, Must Seek Thai culture, Must Buy Thai fabrics, and Must Beat Muay Thai.
Ms. Thapanee said “The “Welcome Ceremony of LABUBU” event is presented with the theme of “POPMART LABUBU X TAT IGNITE THAILAND.” The event reflects the ‘five must-do activities in Thailand’ strategy with LABUBU being a storyteller sharing impressive travel experiences in Thailand. We hope this will help inspire LABUBU’s fanbase in China to follow in its footsteps and choose Thailand as their preferred destination.”
From 2-4 July, the LABUBU mascot in traditional Thai attire will be filmed in a series of promotional videos, exploring iconic landmarks and participating in cultural activities.
The LABUBU mascot will be seen enjoying fresh seafood by the mighty Chao Phraya River at Horsamut Restaurant, riding an electric tuk-tuk to see the Grand Place and Wat Phra Kaeo, touring Siam Discovery and Siam Square shopping destinations, buying Thai souvenirs, and watching world-class Muay Thai at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
TAT has partnered with Qunar.com to promote travel packages inspired by LABUBU’s adventures in Thailand. The travel packages, featuring Bangkok, Pattaya and Chon Buri, are available from now until 1 September, or during summer in China, to encourage more travel to Thailand.
TAT expects the LABUBU’s inspired travel packages to attract 20,000 pax and the promotional videos to generate at least 500 million Reach.
