Stunning Transgender Woman Joins Thailand’s Military Draft Amid Eager Volunteers
The first day of Thailand’s 2025 military draft saw two young men fulfill their childhood dream of becoming soldiers, while a strikingly beautiful transgender woman turned heads as she stepped forward to participate in the conscription process.
The annual draft, held on April 1 at the Nong Kha Yang District Office Hall in Uthai Thani Province, was overseen by Colonel Prapass Klanghon of the 23rd Logistics and Services Battalion. A total of 118 eligible Thai men reported for duty, with 16 recruits needed—10 for the army, two for the Royal Thai Air Force, and four for the Royal Thai Navy.
Before the lottery began, officials assured attendees that the selection process would be free from corruption, encouraging anyone with concerns to speak up, as reported by Channel 7.
Among the first to volunteer were two Thai men who had long dreamed of serving their country.
“We’ve wanted this since we were kids,” one of them said proudly, adding that they were not afraid of deployment to Thailand’s troubled southern border regions. Their ultimate goal is to become professional soldiers and rise to the rank of sergeant. Colonel Prapass praised them, calling them “born to be soldiers.”
As family and friends cheered on the recruits, attention soon shifted to an unexpected presence in the draft hall.
Dressed immaculately, 23-year-old Arit Kannika, also known as “Nong Mo,” captivated the crowd as she took part in the draft process. A final-year Communication Arts student from Nakhon Sawan, Arit revealed that this was her third time participating.
“Two years ago, I deferred because I hadn’t had time to get a medical examination. But this year, I went to Phramongkutklao Hospital, completed the physical check-up, and got my gender identity certification.”
Under Thai law, transgender women can avoid military service if they provide medical documentation proving that their gender identity does not align with their assigned sex at birth. With her paperwork in order, Arit was confident she would be exempt from service.
Meanwhile, another transgender woman, 21-year-old Thanet Saenlop, also known as “Nong Tor,” admitted she was unfamiliar with the draft process.
“This is my first time here, and I don’t know the rules yet. If there’s an option to defer, I’ll take it so I can get my medical certificate and apply next year. But if the doctors say I have to go through with the draft today, I guess I’ll take my chances.”
Although Thailand does not legally recognize gender changes on official documents, transgender women are typically declared medically “unfit for service” and exempt from conscription. However, those without proper documentation must still participate in the draft lottery.
With emotions running high and futures hanging in the balance, Thailand’s military draft remains a moment of both anxiety and celebration, depending on the luck of the draw.
