Home Is Where the Heart Sings — BamBam’s Journey Back to Bangkok with His First Thai-Language Album
Here’s the truth: few artists embody the spirit of bridging worlds like BamBam. He’s a Thai global superstar who grew up under the neon lights of Seoul — but right now, his compass points firmly back to Bangkok. And this time, the music follows.
BamBam, whose name charmingly comes from Bamm-Bamm Rubble of The Flintstones, laughs when explaining its origins. “I’m the third of four kids, and my mom probably wanted her third son to grow strong,” he says. The name is actually quite common in Thailand — though, he adds with a chuckle, “It’s used for more girls than boys!”
From Bangkok’s Streets to Seoul’s Studios
When he left Bangkok for Seoul at age 14, BamBam was chasing a dream that few dared to attempt. As a trainee at JYP Entertainment — home to 2PM and the famous Thai idol Nichkhun — he trained for years before debuting in 2014 with the seven-member group GOT7. The band became a model of international unity, including members from Hong Kong, the U.S., and South Korea itself. Their diverse backgrounds gave GOT7 a rare global appeal; within just a few years, they were performing around the world — from Seoul to São Paulo — ranking ninth on Billboard’s Top 10 Hot Tours list in 2018.
Even after departing from JYP Entertainment in 2021, the group never truly disbanded in spirit. Each member has spread wings in different directions, but they keep regrouping for devoted fans — proving loyalty in K-pop still runs deep.
The Solo Era: A New Chapter of Global Influence
BamBam’s solo career began brightly with riBBon in 2021 and expanded through two more EPs and a full album. His 14-country world tour crowned him a truly global performer, though a North American leg was canceled due to an ankle injury — an unfortunate pause, but not a defeat. His charisma transcended stages, landing him historical roles as the first K-pop ambassador for the NBA’s Golden State Warriors and as a House Ambassador for Louis Vuitton. Add to that millions of views for his variety show Bam’s House, and you’ve got a rare mix of pop star, entertainer, and cultural bridge.
HOMETOWN: The Full Circle Moment
Now, BamBam returns to his roots with HOMETOWN — his first all-Thai album, made up of five heartfelt tracks he co-wrote and co-composed. The pre-release highlight medley captures Thailand’s rhythm and color through flickering analog TV frames — Bangkok’s skyline, tuk-tuks weaving through narrow lanes, cats lounging by street vendors, lotus flowers glowing beneath the sun, markets bustling beside the Chao Phraya River. Each scene feels personal, almost cinematic — a lyrical celebration of the life, warmth, and nostalgia that shaped him. No wonder fans have joked it could double as a tourism campaign for Thailand.
But here’s where it gets touching: when we met him, BamBam wasn’t gazing over Bangkok’s skyline, but Seoul’s — sitting in his new label’s office, HALO, nestled in Gangnam. Reflecting on his years in Korea, he admits, “There were good days and bad ones, but I have ‘Jeong’ for this place — that deep sense of attachment and gratitude.”
The Meaning Behind HOMETOWN
The album’s concept took root on an ordinary day with extraordinary significance. On his way to perform an encore concert in Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium, BamBam realized he was passing the area where he was born. It hit him — this was the moment to reclaim his roots musically. “That’s when I knew the next album had to be called HOMETOWN,” he says.
With this project, BamBam hopes to share Thailand not through exotic imagery but through authentic eyes. “I wanted to show how Thais see our own country — not the tourist version, but the life, the soul.”
His lead single “WONDERING,” with its warm tones and dreamy synths, carries a sense of ease. Compared to darker works like “LAST PARADE” from his 2024 EP BAEMSIS, this one feels lighter, almost like a sigh of relief. “I think I naturally returned to who I was at the beginning,” he reflects. “This time, people can see the real BamBam.”
Collaborations that Celebrate Thai Talent
The five songs on HOMETOWN include stellar partnerships. Pharrell Williams produced “Angel in Disguise,” while local stars like TIMETHAI, Jeff Satur, and INK WARUNTORN bring a distinctly Thai sound. BamBam praises each of them with genuine enthusiasm: “TIMETHAI can do everything — sing, dance — total package. Jeff Satur? He’s insanely talented at everything, and good-looking too. [Laughs] And INK WARUNTORN captures that classic Thai-pop sweetness perfectly.”
Since writing in Thai was a first for BamBam, he credits writers like TYTAN, SMEW, and Jeaniich for their help. The collaboration isn’t just musical; it’s a uniting of generations and genres under one creative homecoming.
“I Wanted to Make Thailand Proud”
Releasing a Thai album 11 years after debuting in Korea feels symbolic — almost like closing a circle. BamBam explains the meaning behind it: “My Thai fans have always supported me just because I’m one of them. When people overseas tell me, ‘I’m proud you’re Thai,’ it makes me emotional. It’s like being a national athlete — you’re out there representing everyone back home.”
He laughs, drawing parallels to how Koreans celebrate their sports stars abroad. “Lisa, Minnie, Nichkhun — we’re like Thailand’s music ambassadors. That pushes me to do my best, so people feel proud of us.”
Still, he’s aware of the responsibility that comes with that fame. “If I make a mistake, it reflects on my country. But I find strength in knowing I’m not a bad person,” he says sincerely. Outside of music, his happiest moments are simple — spending time with his cats or enjoying bowling nights. “That’s my balance.” [Laughs]
Unforgettable Stages and Surreal Experiences
Of course, his journey’s been anything but ordinary. The 2022 NBA Halftime Show — performing between the Golden State Warriors and LA Lakers — was “unreal.” Then came the dreamlike encore at Rajamangala Stadium, a career pinnacle he once doubted would ever happen. Even more surreal? Singing at the Vatican’s Grace for the World concert alongside John Legend, Andrea Bocelli, and Karol G, then casually chatting with Pharrell — sans sunglasses for once! — and shaking hands with Pope Leo XIV. “When else will I experience that?” he exclaims, still amazed.
Rethinking What “K-pop” Really Means
BamBam’s take on K-pop challenges the usual definitions. “The ‘K’ stands for Korea, and that deserves respect. But K-pop isn’t restricted by nationality — it’s about understanding and embracing the culture,” he explains. His loyalty to Korea runs deep. He spent his youth there, and despite now creating music in Thai, his professional home remains Seoul. “My label’s here, my cats are here — everything started here,” he adds with humor. “K-pop, to me, means keeping your beginner’s mindset alive.”
Bonds Beyond Borders
When Thai K-pop idols like Lisa (BLACKPINK), Minnie (i-dle), Ten (NCT), or Natty (Kiss of Life) get together, don’t expect music industry chatter. “We hardly talk about work. We’re just friends hanging out, sharing snippets, giving feedback. Titles and fame don’t matter.”
Thailand, meanwhile, is having its renaissance moment in entertainment. Fashion, streaming, and pop culture — Thai influence is everywhere. BamBam notices it too: “Back in 2014, I was one of the few trying to reach global audiences. Now, Thai artists show a new confidence, much of it inspired by K-pop’s boldness and creativity.”
Looking Ahead — Gently
At 28, BamBam is surprisingly grounded. “I used to chase goals so hard that I lost myself. Now I want to go at a healthy pace, living and sharing life with fans.” Starting his career so young means the public has grown up with him — through awkward moments, transitions, and triumphs alike. “In the future, I want a bond with fans that’s deeper than performer and audience — almost like life companions,” he muses with a smile. “Maybe one day, I’ll even say, ‘Let’s go out for dinner together!’” [Laughs]
Finally, he hopes HOMETOWN reminds listeners of who he was before fame — the hopeful boy from Bangkok who just loved music. “When people listen,” he says softly, “I want them to feel that beginning — the pure BamBam who had nothing but dreams.”
And here’s the part most people miss: beneath the glitter and global fame lies a simple truth — BamBam’s story isn’t just about two homes; it’s about two hearts in harmony.
What do you think? Does K-pop belong to Korea alone, or has it evolved into a truly borderless art form? BamBam’s journey might just redefine the answer.
