The highly anticipated fourth annual “Siang Son Waew Wan Sithan International Festival” final saw contestants deliver powerful performances on the Creative Stage 2, concluding the thrilling Luuk Thung singing competition ahead of the solemn ceremony honouring Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
On 4 November 2568, at 19.00 hrs., Khon Kaen University (KKU) hosted the grand final round of the 4th annual Luuk Thung singing contest, the “Siang Son Waew Wan Sithan International Festival,” at Creative Stage 2, within the “Sithan International Festival 2025”. The atmosphere was lively and enthusiastic, as finalists hailing from across the region delivered captivating and energetic performances, leaving a strong impression on the judging panel and the large, supportive audience.
Prior to the competition, a ceremony was held to pay homage and reflect upon the boundless compassion of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization, led the tribute ceremony. The working committee and all participants joined the event, demonstrating profound loyalty in an atmosphere deeply imbued with a sense of gratitude for Her Majesty’s infinite kindness.
Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization, presided over the official opening ceremony, commending the high quality of the event. She stated that Khon Kaen University is dedicated to promoting and preserving Thailand’s exquisite arts and culture, especially Luuk Thung music, which profoundly reflects the spirit, way of life, and aspirations of the people. This music genre, she stressed, is an invaluable form of art and culture that deserves conservation and continuous development.
Reporting on the event management, Associate Professor Choojate Kamonlert, D.V.M., Ph.D., Chair of the Organising Committee, explained that the “Siang Son Waew Wan Sithan International Festival” aims to promote and perpetuate Thai Luuk Thung music—a unique national identity—and to offer youth and interested individuals an opportunity to continually express their musical talents, develop their skills, and potentially pursue professional singing careers.
This year, 69 applicants submitted video clips for the preliminary round (46 males and 23 females). This was shortlisted to 10 contestants in each category (male and female) for the grand final. Each finalist was required to perform two songs—one slow and one fast—allowing the judging committee to assess voice quality, pronunciation, style, personality, and attire comprehensively.
The prizes awarded for both the male and female categories were:
- Champion: Trophy and 10,000 Baht prize money
- First Runner-up: Trophy and 7,000 Baht prize money
- Second Runner-up: Trophy and 5,000 Baht prize money
- Consolation Prize (2 awards): Trophy and 2,000 Baht prize money
The activity was jointly organised by KKU’s Division of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, the Academic Services Centre, and the Isan Media Professionals Club. The objective was to provide a platform for youth cultural expression, enhance Luuk Thung musical skills, and foster the sustainable conservation of Thai cultural heritage within society.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Photos: Siang Son Waew Wan Festival Organising Committee
