BUS: Turning gratitude into a movement of music

Bangkok Post

2 days ago

Key Information
Name: BUS (Because of You I Shine)
Members: 12
Formed: 2023 via "789 SURVIVAL" show
Debut: Dec 6, 2023
Fandom name: BEUS (Be with BUS)
Origin: Thailand
Instagram: @bus.becauseofyouishine
From survival to stardom
BUS was formed from a small survival show called '789 SURVIVAL' under the management of SONRAY MUSIC. The show featured 24 trainees with plans to debut seven, eight or nine finalists. Initially introduced as 789 DEBUT GROUP, the group officially rebranded as 'Because of You I Shine', which became both their name and concept.
With their unity and great chemistry, the group ended up with 12 members: Alan (Pasawee Sriarunotai), Marckris (Kris Kanchanatip), Khunpol (Pongpol Panyamit), Heart (Chuthiwat Jankane), Jinwook (Kim Jin Wook), Thai (Chayanon Phakthin), Nex (Nattakit Chaemdara), Phutatchai (Tatchai Limpanyakul), Copper (Dechawat Phondechaphiphat), AA (Ashirakorn Suvitayasatian), Jungt (T Boonsermsuwong), and Peemwasu (Wasupon Pornpananurak).
Debut era and concept
BUS made their official debut on Dec 6, 2023 with their first single ' Because of You, I Shine '. Their first track quickly went viral, surpassing 10 million views.
With their fandom name as BEUS (Be with BUS), the heart of BUS's concept is a message of gratitude, unity, and emotional connection, themes that resonate deeply with their growing fanbase.
In an interview with GQ Thailand, Thai Chayanon explained that they don't see their fans as passive or distant, but rather as part of their family. The sense of closeness makes them feel supported, with BUS and BEUS on the same journey together.
Mackris added that when they release something, whether it is music or a performance, it's not just for themselves. It's something their fans can deeply connect to, as it is a shared achievement altogether.
Music and subunits
From bright and energetic tunes to emotional songs, BUS covers a wide variety of genres. Their second track ' WATCH YOUR STEP ' (2024) follows a similar theme to their debut, whilst later tracks such as ' LIAR ' (2024) and ' TRANSFORMER ' (2024) focus more on a darker and more choreography-based concept.
In April 2024, the renowned group decided to diversify and showcase individual members by splitting into subunits. BUS5 and BUS7 are two dynamic teams with distinct musical styles and member lineups.
BUS5 – made up of Heart, Jinwook, Jungt, Marckris, and Phutatchai – released ' No Matter What ' (2024), a heartfelt track that explores themes of loyalty and enduring friendship. In contrast, BUS7 – featuring AA, Alan, Copper, Khunpol, Nex, Peemwasu, and Thai – debuted with ' Brother Zone ' (2024), a playful and upbeat song centred on young love.
Having these two subunits actually reinforces the group members' relationships with one another. In an interview with WOODY, Heart said, 'I feel that in the past year, we have been through a lot together. We have been more united as a group, in terms of trust and relationship with one another.'
Shining on stage
BUS made an unforgettable impression in their first year. In September 2024, they held their first tour around the country called 'Knock Knock : BUS 1st THAILAND FANCON TOUR'. They brought their talents and personalities to fans across Thailand, selling out every show available.
The tour was a preparation for their biggest concert yet: 'BUS The 1st Concert: LIGHT THE WORLD', held at IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, from March 14 to 16, 2025. The three-day event marked a major turning point in their career, showcasing their ability on a large-scale stage.
Achievements and fame
Alongside their performance milestones, BUS received awards from several major award shows. They won Best Music and Best Performance at the TOTY Music Awards 2023, earned Rookie of the Year at the Mint Awards 2024, and were recognised by both the Kazz Awards and the Thailand Social Awards. Their presence also led to a performance at the prestigious Korean AAA Awards, highlighting their reach beyond Thailand.
Once a group of trainees with big dreams and ambitions, BUS has grown into one of the most successful rising boy bands in 2025. As they continue to shine and capture attention worldwide, they stand as proof that Thai pop groups can thrive with authenticity, unity, and gratitude.