National —
On December 7th, 2024, The New York Times unveiled its 63 Most Stylish People of the Year, featuring a diverse mix of global icons and even a surprise contender—Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi.
Moo Deng was praised for “She bit. She screamed. She conquered hearts the world over,” standing proudly alongside stars like Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Adele.
Read more about other candidates from The New York Times here.
Mr. Narongwit Chotchoy, Director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, credited caretaker Mr. Attapol Nundee, also known as Benz, for turning Moo Deng into a global phenomenon, attracting visitors from around the world.
Since October, Khao Kheow Open Zoo welcomed over 480,000 visitors, with international guests making up 30% of the total. The hippo’s fame has boosted tourism across Chonburi, especially in Pattaya and Bangsaen, driving increased spending and accommodation bookings.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
