Warm Smiles and Thai Hospitality: Thai Representative Mr. Narong Boonsatheanwong Joins 2025 Taichung Hotpot & Grill Festival Promotional Video, Radiating Friendship with Crescent-Moon Eyes

The 2025 Taichung Hotpot & Grill Festival is set to launch on July 14, and Mayor Lu Shiow-Yen has specially invited Mr. Narong Boonsatheanwong, Representative of the Thailand Trade and Economic Office, to participate in the festival’s promotional video. With smiling eyes gently curved like a crescent moon and a warm, welcoming expression, Mr. Narong embodied the signature friendliness and hospitality of Thai culture, filling the shoot with vibrant energy and sincere charm.

Mr. Narong recently visited Taichung City Hall and held a cordial exchange with Mayor Lu. The mayor expressed her hopes to deepen cooperation with Thailand across multiple areas, including tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Mr. Narong responded warmly, noting that Taiwan and Thailand share many similarities in lifestyle and social customs, and from the moment he arrived, he felt the heartfelt warmth of the people—so much so that he regards Taiwan as his second home.

To prepare for the shoot, the Thai Office worked closely with the Taichung City Government, actively coordinating locations and filming concepts. Mr. Narong fondly recalled his previous visit to ASEAN Square, where he enjoyed authentic Thai cuisine and formed a lasting impression of Taichung. This time, the Office recommended filming at ASEAN Square, several Thai restaurants operated by Thai nationals, and the Four-Faced Buddha shrine—locations that reflect the depth of Thai culture and its harmonious integration into Taichung’s urban fabric.

On filming day, Mr. Narong donned a traditional yellow outfit, symbolizing respect and blessings. He and his team departed early from Taipei and drove to Taichung, embarking on a tightly packed filming schedule. Despite the heat and fast pace, he remained cheerful and accommodating throughout—his crescent-moon smile never fading, his demeanor always gracious. At one point, under the blazing Taichung sun, he casually took out a small handheld fan to cool himself, exuding lightheartedness and humility. His natural and approachable presence deeply moved the entire filming crew.

The day’s “marathon-style” shoot continued into the night, concluding around 9 p.m. Though visibly tired, Mr. Narong and his team maintained their warmth and enthusiasm. The day was filled with laughter, heartfelt interactions, and even curious onlookers drawn in by his magnetic charm.

Mr. Narong warmly hosted Mayor Lu at his residence, preparing a series of authentic Thai dishes that fully reflected Thailand’s renowned hospitality. From grilled pork with spicy sauce to Thai red curry salmon and other main courses, each dish was rich in Thai flavors and culinary creativity, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

During the meal, Mr. Narong casually picked up a menu and personally wrote in Chinese the characters Lu Shiow-Yen and Taichung Hotpot & Grill Festival as a special gift for the Mayor. Mayor Lu was pleasantly surprised and remarked that it was the first time she had seen a foreign representative writing in Chinese - especially her own name, with its many intricate strokes. She said she was deeply touched by this thoughtful gesture and would treasure the keepsake.

As one delicious dish after another was served, Mayor Lu couldn’t help but smile and say, “Today, I’ve decided not to go on a diet!” — bringing this warm and memorable cultural exchange dinner to a perfect conclusion.

The 2025 Taichung Hotpot & Grill Festival is officially underway! From July 14 to August 14, vote for your favorite hotpot and grill restaurants through the “Taichung Pass (TCPASS)” app. We sincerely invite everyone to download the Taichung Pass app or visit the Economic Development Bureau’s website to watch the Taichung Hotpot & Grill Festival – Thailand Edition video and experience the vibrant cultural exchange between Taichung and Thailand!