'District of Love' ready for same-sex marriage registration tomorrow

More than 60 same-sex couples have booked online to register their marriages at the Bang Rak District Office in Bangkok tomorrow, according to District Director Pornpan Wattanasin.

The district has long been popular among lovebirds as its name literally translates to ‘District of Love.’ Pornpan said that those who booked online include both Thai and foreign nationals.

All district offices in Bangkok and other provinces are prepared to register same-sex marriages, now allowed under the historic law that takes effect today.

Pornpan noted that the district gained international recognition after being featured in a foreign film about getting married at Bang Rak.

To accommodate foreign couples, officials have been specially trained to provide services.

“Moreover, our officials have been trained to handle same-sex marriage registrations, including addressing pronouns and phrasing questions, so that the couples feel comfortable,” she said.

The director emphasised that couples should prepare all required documents for registration.

For those under 20 years old, parental consent forms are required. Foreigners must present an Affirmation of Marital Status to complete the registration process.

The district has also prepared a special prize for the first couple to register their marriage tomorrow.

Celebration backdrops have been set up for couples to take photos, she added.