: An English term popularized by tourism and international media. It is rarely used by Thais among themselves and is primarily used when interacting with foreigners.
: Kathoey are highly visible in Thai pop culture as models, singers, and movie stars. Famous events like Miss Tiffany’s Universe in Pattaya are major televised beauty pageants that celebrate transgender beauty. ladyboy guide
The terminology surrounding this identity is fluid and varies by context: : An English term popularized by tourism and
: A more modern, Western-influenced term ( phuying kham phet ). Many Thai kathoey increasingly prefer to identify simply as "woman" ( phuying ). Famous events like Miss Tiffany’s Universe in Pattaya
: Many kathoey work in fashion, beauty salons, and shops. However, discrimination in formal sectors like the civil service often pushes individuals toward the entertainment and sex industries, which are more welcoming but offer less security.
Some believe being born kathoey is the result of transgressions in a past life, such as adultery or failing reproductive duties.
Despite their high visibility, kathoey face significant legal hurdles: