: In Thai culture, kathoey is often viewed as a third gender category that is neither strictly male nor female. This concept dates back centuries, with some historical accounts identifying the category as early as the 14th century.

Despite this association with "bad karma," Buddhist teachings emphasize compassion, as everyone is believed to have been a kathoey in a previous life or will be in a future one.

: 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.