Patience urged as Georgia investigates death of Thai YouTuber 'Hlun Solo'

Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed deep sadness on Thursday over the death of popular Thai travel YouTuber "Hlun Solo" in Georgia, warning against speculation while local authorities continue their investigation into the cause of his untimely death.

Speaking to reporters at Government House, Sihasak confirmed that the Royal Thai Embassy in Ankara, Turkey, which oversees Thai diplomatic affairs in Georgia, has dispatched officials to Tbilisi to coordinate closely with local law enforcement and follow up on the case.

The deceased, a 26-year-old whose real name is Bowornthat Pengsuk, was found dead in a hotel room in the Georgian capital on Wednesday. The discovery brought to an end a two-week search after contact was lost on July 13, prompting a public appeal from his family earlier this week.

Georgian media reported that law enforcement launched an investigation under Article 115 of the Georgian Criminal Code, which covers incitement to suicide. Local authorities routinely initiate proceedings under this provision as a procedural standard when investigating deaths occurring under unconfirmed circumstances.

Addressing questions regarding Thailand's involvement, Sihasak emphasised that, while Thai officials are closely monitoring developments, Georgian authorities must first complete their official inquiry and formally share their findings before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.

The minister urged the public and media to refrain from speculating on whether foul play or self-harm was involved and to wait until official reports are released.

He added that, once the investigation concludes, the ministry will coordinate with the family to assist in repatriating Bowornthat's remains in accordance with their wishes.