Serious — Ladyboys
(like marriage equality or name change laws) Famous figures (in Thai media or pageantry)
: While foreigners use "ladyboy," many in the community prefer the term phuying (woman) or simply identify as transgender women . serious ladyboys
: In Thailand, kathoey are often viewed as a third gender , a concept that has existed in the culture as far back as the 14th century. Cultural Integration vs. Legal Reality (like marriage equality or name change laws) Famous
: In a move toward greater inclusion, some areas in Bangkok have introduced third-gender washrooms specifically for the transgender community. The Entertainment Industry Legal Reality : In a move toward greater
: Despite cultural visibility, Thai law does not yet officially recognize a separate third gender category. However, since January 2015, they have received constitutional protection against gender discrimination.
: Kathoey are world-renowned for their high-production cabaret shows, such as the Ladyboys of Bangkok and the Chiang Mai Cabaret.
: It is a misconception that all kathoey are gay men; most identify specifically as transgender women.

