The Erawan Shrine, located at the busy Ratchaprasong intersection in Bangkok, is a highly revered site, attracting millions of visitors each year. On August 17, 2015, a bomb was detonated during the evening rush hour, a time when the area was particularly crowded with both locals and tourists. The explosion ripped through the peace of one of the city's major tourist attractions, killing at least 19 people and injuring over 123 others, with many victims being foreign nationals from places such as China and Hong Kong.

The attack was notable for its location, as the Erawan Shrine is a symbol of Brahmanist faith, deeply rooted in Thai culture. The incident shocked many within Thailand and internationally, given the shrine's nature as a site of worship, devotion, and a place for seeking blessings. It raised significant concerns about security, particularly in a country that had been experiencing political unrest and protests leading up to the incident, further amplifying fears about the safety of public spaces and tourists in the region.

In the aftermath, the Thai government faced criticism regarding its ability to ensure safety and prevent such attacks. The bombing was interpreted as a manifestation of underlying tensions in Thai society, sometimes linked to political divisions and unrest. Investigations into the bombing led to a relatively quick arrest of several suspects, revealing a complex web of motivations that included both political factors and organized crime elements. This event stirred discussions on security measures in tourist hotspots, essentially reshaping how such sites are policed moving forward.