The SEA Games 33 opens today, 9/12, at 7 PM at Rajamangala stadium in Bangkok, following a preparation period of just over one month. The opening ceremony comprises five chapters, recounting the history of the SEA Games, honoring the competitive spirit, and celebrating ASEAN friendship. It will also feature modern lighting technology and music. Singer BamBam is scheduled for a solo performance, alongside many Thai artists, athletes, and celebrities. The final segment will be the torch relay and lighting of the flame, performed by Panipak Wongpattanakit.

Main stage perspective for the opening ceremony. Photo: Duc Dong

The organization of this SEA Games has drawn criticism due to a change in the directorial team just before the opening day, a lack of media information, and inadequate competition schedules and operational procedures. Tickets for some sports are not free, and ticket holders are required to arrive early for identity verification. Despite these complaints and the backdrop of border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, the Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports maintained that the opening ceremony would be spectacular, further solidifying Thailand's central role in ASEAN.

The SEA Games 33 runs from 9/12 to 20/12, featuring 9,366 athletes from 11 countries competing in 50 sports. Vietnam's delegation includes 1,165 members.

By Quang Dung - Hoang An