Singer passes away from dengue fever, relatives and audience mournfully bid farewell
The singer's passing has left many people in shock.
On June 1, 2025, the Thai art world was shocked to receive the sad news: the famous singer of Likay stage (a traditional Thai music genre) - Wirada Wongthewan, passed away after more than a year of fighting dengue fever. Her brother - veteran actor Kung Suthirat Wongthewan - confirmed the sad news through an emotional post on his personal Facebook page, leaving deep sorrow in the hearts of the public and fans.
Wirada Wongthewan - also known by her real name Phinwadi Phuwarungruanghiran - is a familiar face of the traditional Likay stage. Not only possessing a lovely appearance, she also conquered the audience with her soulful voice and delicate acting ability, contributing to preserving and spreading Thai folk culture to the younger generation.
The terrible disease began to attack her at the end of December 2023. At first, she thought she had a common cold and tried to treat it herself. However, as her condition worsened, Wirada was taken to the hospital in a state of severe shock, in a deep coma and on a ventilator. Doctors diagnosed her with type 1 dengue fever, a dangerous form that leads to complications of cerebral edema, making the treatment process challenging.
During more than a year of fighting the disease, her family, friends and many fans always followed, sent words of encouragement and hoped for a miracle. However, the miracle did not come. On the evening of May 31, 2025, the female artist breathed her last in the arms of her loved ones, ending a life full of determination and tireless dedication to art.
Immediately after, her brother - Kung Suthirat - wrote a tearful farewell: "Today is the day we really have to say goodbye, right? I don't want to accept this, but it's true. You are the strongest little mouse I've ever known. You are the heart of my parents, of me, of the King and of Wakin."
In his heartfelt message, the actor not only expressed his deep love for his sister but also expressed his determination to continue to take care of the family in her place:
"There are only two of us left. I will be strong for my mother, for my family and for Wakin. Don't worry about anything, Wi. I will take good care of everyone. Sleep well, Wi. I love you with all my heart."
The artist's funeral was solemnly held in her hometown, starting from June 1 at Wongthewan House, Saraburi District, Chai Nat Province, where her family lives. The sprinkling ceremony was held at 4pm on the same day. Chanting sessions took place on June 1, 2, and 4 to 6 (no chanting on June 3), and the cremation ceremony was scheduled for 3pm on June 7, 2025 at Wat Wihan Thong, Sak Buri District, Chai Nat Province.
Wirada's passing left a huge void not only in her family but also in the hearts of the public who love traditional Thai art. At a very young age, she left behind a valuable artistic legacy and is a model of the spirit of overcoming difficulties and devoting herself completely to art.
In the candlelight farewell, fans not only mourned a talented artist, but also a heart that always burned for Likay – a part of the quintessence of Thai culture that is gradually being forgotten. And from now on, Likay will be missing a voice, a gaze, a beautiful soul named Wirada Wongthewan.
