Cover Story: Thai Actor, Gulf Kanawut is Living in the Moment

You know it is a splendid day when Gulf Kanawut takes time from his packed schedule to sit down for this interview. From a friend of the brand of Gucci, he then got officially appointed the brand’s first Thai male brand ambassador — following quickly in the footsteps of Mai Davika Hoorne, who recently became the brand ambassador for both Gucci and Gucci Beauty. This conversation actually occurred before this key announcement was made, showing how Gulf ’s hardworking nature has never changed.

Please tell us about your experience attending the Gucci Ancora Men’s Fall/Winter 2024 show in Milan.

There are so many impressions [left on me]. This is my first time attending Milan Fashion Week with Gucci all by myself. Before this, I went with Mai (Davika Hoorne) but it is just me this time. So I am super excited and this trip has left an impression.

How do you feel being selected to represent Thailand for such a world-class event?

Excited, of course. I had never dreamed of being offered such a position because each guest here is world-class — like IU and Jay Park. That’s why I am so happy and excited to be a part of it.

Is there an unforgettable moment from this trip?

Probably my encounter with Jay Park. I met him once at Gucci’s event in South Korea, and we chatted a bit. I am so impressed that he remembered me when we met again. He is as nice as he was before. He is such a nice person, really. I have been his fan, listening to his music because my favourite genre is hip-hop. So when your favourite artist remembers you, and is really nice to you, it is both impressive and shocking at the same time.

Travelling so far across the globe, how did you feel when you saw your fans here?

It was shocking! As an Asian, I didn’t expect that there would be European fans welcoming me here like when I’m in Thailand. Out of expectations, I was both impressed and shocked.

Do you still like eating crispy pork?

I do. I will always like it.

With these strong bonds, how can you be away for work?

I miss them so much! When I go abroad, I constantly Facetime with my mom because she is in charge of taking care of my kitties when I’m away.

If you had unlimited money and time, what would you spend them on?

First of all, I’d visit Switzerland. It has been my dream to bring my whole family there because my parents really want to visit the country. If we have time and the chance, I’d love to spend some time with my family there.

After working with Gucci, how has your life changed?

What has changed a lot is that I need to be a lot more active on my social platforms. You can’t deny that social networking plays a key role in brand engagement these days. That’s why I need to better focus on this. Also, I need to be more interactive with Gucci. I wasn’t a big social media platform user, and this is a big change for me. The other things haven’t changed so much.

How do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

I have no idea. I can’t answer that now because my future can change. If you ask me now, I’d say I’ll still be an actor for the next 10 years, or at least be someone in the entertainment industry. But who knows, I might change my mind in the next five years. I can’t see myself that far in the future. I just want to focus on what I am about to do next. I don’t want to have the pressure of, you know, needing to be at this level when you reach a certain age. Anyway, that is my view today. Even that may change later on.

Is there anything you’d like to tell Gucci?

I’d like to thank Gucci for providing me with this opportunity. I promise I’ll do my best. Thank you so much.