What landmark building in Bangkok collapsed during the March 2025 Myanmar earthquake, killing at least 18?

On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake originating in central Myanmar sent significant tremors across Southeast Asia, including Thailand. While Bangkok is not typically considered a high-risk earthquake zone, the magnitude 7.7 seismic event, with its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar, caused unexpected devastation in the Thai capital. The most prominent casualty of this natural disaster in Bangkok was a landmark structure intended to be the new State Audit Office building, which tragically collapsed during the shaking.

The collapse of the State Audit Office building, which was still under construction, was a singular and devastating event in Bangkok. Investigations revealed that while the earthquake was a powerful catalyst, the building's failure was primarily attributed to critical shortcomings in its design and construction. Experts found issues with the shear wall systems, essential for resisting lateral forces, which were improperly designed and installed. Although initial concerns about material quality were raised, further analysis indicated that the implementation of materials deviated from regulatory standards, with steel elements reportedly cut down in size and installed incorrectly. Bangkok's soft soil also played a role, amplifying the earthquake's energy and contributing to the severe impact on the structure.

The tragedy resulted in a significant loss of life, with reports indicating at least 95 confirmed deaths, alongside numerous injuries and missing individuals. This incident sparked extensive investigations into the building's contractors, supervisors, and the adherence to building codes, highlighting concerns about construction quality and potential corruption in government projects. The event served as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent building standards and oversight, even in areas less prone to severe seismic activity, leading to renewed scrutiny of construction practices across the region.