Thai Stars Lingling and Orm Dethrone K-Pop Idols as Dior's New Power Duo
In a move that’s shaking up the fashion world, Dior has officially named Thai actresses Sirilak Kwong (Lingling) and Kornnaphat Sethratanapong (Orm) as their latest brand ambassadors. But here’s where it gets controversial: these rising stars are not just making waves—they’re outpacing K-pop idols as the most influential figures at fashion weeks globally. Could this mark the beginning of a new era in fashion influence? Let’s dive in.
Together known as LingOrm, the duo first captivated audiences in their breakout GL (girls’ love) series The Secret of Us, followed by the equally popular Only You. This genre, which has garnered a massive international fanbase, has propelled them into the spotlight. Dior, in an exclusive statement to WWD, praised them as “a captivating duo who perfectly embody Dior’s spirit of freedom and constantly reinvented elegance.”
And this is the part most people miss: Lingling and Orm’s impact isn’t just about star power—it’s about strategy. At Paris Fashion Week, they dominated the earned media value (EMV) charts, surpassing even the most established influencers. According to a report by Karla Otto, Lefty, and CTZAR, their relentless engagement—50 posts about Dior alone—drove staggering EMV figures. Orm led the spring 2026 season with an EMV of $23.5 million, while Lingling followed closely at $21.5 million.
But what makes Lingling and Orm so unique? Lingling, born in Hong Kong to a Chinese father and Thai mother, is a multilingual powerhouse fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, English, and Thai. Her journey from beauty pageants to becoming the CEO of her own lifestyle brand, Always Wonder, is nothing short of inspiring. Orm, on the other hand, is the daughter of Thai actress Koy Narumon Phongsuphap and has built a name for herself with roles in hit dramas like Game of Outlaws. She also runs her fashion line, Keep Silent, and boasts 2.4 million Instagram followers.
Both stars expressed their excitement about joining Dior, particularly under Jonathan Anderson’s creative direction. Lingling shared, “I truly believe in his genius and artistic vision,” while Orm called the partnership “a dream come true.”
Dior’s move isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic recognition of the Thai Wave, a cultural phenomenon that’s reshaping global fashion. The brand previously signed Thai actors Apo and Mile as men’s ambassadors in 2023, solidifying its commitment to this rising market.
Controversial Question: As Thai stars continue to dominate the fashion scene, will K-pop idols lose their crown as the ultimate influencers? Or is there room for both to coexist? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
