One of the reasons for the high level of visibility and relative acceptance of transgender individuals in Thailand is the influence of Theravada Buddhism .

Despite the popularity of the term ladyboy in tourism, most Thai transgender women prefer to refer to themselves as phuying (meaning "woman") or phuying praphet song ("second kind of woman").

Ladyboys are a visible part of Thai society, working across all sectors, though they are most famously recognized in the entertainment industry.

Traditional Southeast Asian cultures often viewed the soul as feminine or masculine independent of the body, allowing for a more flexible understanding of gender. Life in the Public Eye: Cabarets and Beyond

Many Thais perceive Kathoeys as belonging to a third gender category, neither fully male nor female in a traditional sense.

The following article explores the broader cultural landscape, history, and modern identity of the individuals often associated with this keyword. Understanding the Identity: From Kathoey to Ladyboy