Thailand wants Bangkok to be called 'Krung Thep Maha Nakhon'

Government-approved change sparks criticism of long, confusing name

20220219 Thailand Bangkok Grand Palace

The Grand Palace in Bangkok, one of the main sights of the Thai capital on Jan. 10. Should it now be called by tourists the Grand Palace in "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon"? © AP

APORNRATH PHOONPHONGPHIPHAT, Nikkei staff writer

BANGKOK -- Do you know the name of Thailand's capital city? Most visitors would say, "Bangkok" without hesitation. Many locals, in turn, would say, "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon," which means "city of angels" in Thai.

But the government this week made a small but significant change to this dual name -- and the decision has created a minor uproar.

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