Pageants for ladyboys are common at local festivals and often receive equal coverage to traditional female beauty contests. The Meaning of the Term
While "ladyboy" is common in tourism, it is not used as frequently within Thailand itself. Many prefer the term or the traditional Thai word kathoey . The community values being seen as individuals beyond their roles as entertainers, emphasizing their status as an authentic part of Thai society.
While highly visible in media and fashion, ladyboys work in various sectors, including hospitality, filmmaking, and hairdressing.
Beyond tourism, many ladyboys are prominent public figures, appearing as singers, models, and movie stars in mainstream Thai media.
