On Aug. 16, Paetongtarn became Thailand’s prime minister at the age of 37, according to Khaosod. She is the third member of the Shinawatra family to assume the role, following in the footsteps of her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.
Paetongtarn, the youngest child of Thaksin Shinawatra and Khunying Potjaman Damapong, is affectionately known as Ung Ing. She has two older siblings: Oak-Panthongtae, who is six years older, and Aim-Pintongta, who is four years her senior.
Paetongtarn completed her secondary education at St. Joseph Convent School and Mater Dei School before earning a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Chulalongkorn University. She furthered her studies in the U.K. at the University of Surrey, specializing in International Hospitality Management.
Upon her return to Thailand, Paetongtarn took on a leadership role in the family business, becoming the largest shareholder of SC Asset Corporation Public Company Limited and serving on the board of the Thaicom Foundation. Additionally, she holds shares in various companies, including Rosewood Bangkok Hotel, Thames Valley Khao Yai, and The Sisters Nails & More.
In 2019, she married pilot Pidok Sooksawas, and they have two children together. Paetongtarn made her political debut in 2021.
Paetongtarn often showcases her lifestyle and fashion preferences on social media. She has a taste for sophisticated styles and is frequently spotted in outfits, bags, and shoes from top fashion brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Hermes, Gucci, and Celine.
Elle magazine highlights her signature look, which includes natural makeup and intricate hairstyles, whether she's at work or attending events. She also enjoys making bold fashion statements, such as wearing an asymmetrical coat to a meeting.
In February, Paetongtarn complemented her work attire with platform shoes at an event.
During one outing, she styled a shirt and Chanel bag, finishing the look with a Bulgari necklace and Van Cleef & Arpels earrings.
Her daily wardrobe typically features shorts, shirts, midi skirts, heeled sandals, and mules. Elle reports that she has a varied collection of eyewear, including cat-eye and aviator styles.
Paetongtarn wore a Louis Vuitton shirt and flats paired with a Chanel leather jacket during a riverside stroll.
While in London, she sported a striking ensemble featuring a military-style Miu Miu jacket, complemented by a Hermes Kelly bag.
At the airport, she embraced the pajama trend by wearing a silk set from Dior, paired with a Fendi travel bag and a limited-edition Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama suitcase.
For events, she prefers feminine dresses in vibrant colors, typically accessorized with luxury jewelry from Tiffany and Bulgari.
