A Study on The Representation of Thailand in People's Daily (2013 - 2023) and National Image Construction

Yang Hua; Supatra  Horpianjaroen; Zheng  Qing Yuan

Authors

Yang Hua Master's degree student in Chinese for Careers, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce
Supatra Horpianjaroen Chinese Department Teacher, School of Humanities, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce
Zheng Qing Yuan Chinese Department Teacher, School of Humanities, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce

Keywords:

National Image Construction, People's Daily, China - Thailand Relations

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the reports on Thailand in People's Daily from 2013 to 2023 and explore how the newspaper shapes Thailand's national image in the political, economic, cultural, and social domains. Through quantitative statistics and qualitative analysis of 661 relevant reports, the study reveals how Chinese mainstream media portray Thailand and the potential diplomatic strategies involved. This research combines both quantitative and qualitative methods, utilizing word frequency analysis and sentiment analysis tools, with data processing and analysis conducted using Python programming. The study extracts reports containing the keyword "Thailand" from the People's Daily database and classifies them while analyzing their sentiment tendencies. The results show that People's Daily primarily emphasizes the cooperation between China and Thailand in the political and economic fields, creating a positive diplomatic atmosphere. Meanwhile, some social issues are portrayed negatively. In the cultural domain, the reports highlight the historical and cultural ties between the two countries, particularly through education and cultural exchanges, further promoting bilateral relations. This study provides a new perspective on how Chinese media shape national images in international communication and offers suggestions for improving future reporting.

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