A Study of the Cultural Identity of the Thai Bueng Community in Thailand

Abstract

The Thai Bueng people are a distinct cultural group with roots in Vientiane, Laos. They reside near the Pa Sak River in five provinces in Thailand: Lop Buri, Phetchabun, Buriram, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The findings revealed that key aspects such as traditional dances, language, customs, beliefs, clothing, food, folk games, and songs were documented. Despite variations across localities, the Thai Bueng identity is maintained through their language, which differs from Lao and Central Thai. This identity is further characterized by unique traditions, beliefs, food, and clothing, such as the traditional clothing items jongkrabin and phaokaoma inherited from their ancestors.