[2] Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit was born and raised in Bangkok, within a Thai Chinese family that traces its roots back to Fujian province.
Additionally, the Juangroongruangkit family has significant holdings in Matichon Publishing Group, a major Thai media conglomerate.
Thanathorn's perspective on this project reflects his broader critique of government practices, which he associates with issues of accountability and what he describes as crony capitalism.
[6] Thanathorn initially aspired to a career with the United Nations and received an offer to work as a development worker in Algeria.
[12] Thanathorn was instrumental in expanding the company’s global reach, establishing manufacturing facilities in seven countries and employing over 16,000 people worldwide.
Further expanding the company's global footprint, in 2009, Thanathorn guided Thai Summit Group in acquiring Ogihara, a leading Japanese mould maker.
From 2008 to 2012, he served as the President of the Federation of Thai Industry's Nakhon Nayok Chapter, holding this position for two consecutive terms.
[16] In addition to this role, Thanathorn was distinguished as the youngest person to be elected as the Secretary-General of the Thai Auto Parts Manufacturers Association, a position he held from 2007 to 2010.
[17] In a significant career shift, after spending 17 years as Executive Vice-President of the Thai Summit Group, Thanathorn stepped down from this role in May 2018.
This decision followed his election as the leader of the Future Forward Party, marking his transition from business to a full-time career in politics.
[18] On 15 March 2018, Thanatorn, together with Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, a former constitutional law professor at Thammasat University, and other individuals with similar views, initiated the establishment of a new political party, named Future Forward (Thai: อนาคตใหม่), registering it with the Election Commission of Thailand.
[20] To maintain its independence and transparency, Future Forward has adopted a funding model that depends solely on contributions from its members and supporters.
[22] Thanathorn, with his business background, youthful image, and political perspectives, has attracted international media attention, drawing comparisons to leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
[23][24] In Thailand, media often labels him as the "billionaire commoner," highlighting his role in challenging the country's social class system.
"[26][27][28] Regarding legal matters, Thanathorn, along with Jaruwan Sarankate and Klaikong Vaidhyakarn, senior members of his party, faced charges under the Computer Crime Act.
[40]: 75 Thanathorn issued a statement denying any relationship with Wong and stating that he supports China playing a bigger role both regionally and globally.
[41] Later, Puttipong Punnakanta filed the charge through Technology Crime Suppression Division and the court ordered taking the video down.
[47] In his free time, Thanathorn enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, climbing, marathons, kayaking, cycling, diving and mountaineering.