Bangkok Residents Seek Safer Housing After 7.7-Magnitude Quake

The recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar has sent shockwaves through Bangkok, where residents are now questioning the safety of high-rise living. Many, like 23-year-old Phatsakon Kaewkla, have reported cracks in their apartments, leading to fears about structural integrity and prompting a reevaluation of housing options. Real estate consultant Owen Zhu noted a notable increase in inquiries from residents looking to move to lower floors or different buildings entirely due to heightened anxiety about earthquake resistance. The quake has exposed concerns over building regulations in Thailand, with many residents feeling that safety measures are insufficient. Despite assurances from building management about safety, many residents remain unsettled, reflecting a broader trend of apprehension towards urban living in tall structures. This shift in mindset could have lasting implications for the Bangkok real estate market as residents seek safer living environments.