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Thailand is often viewed as the most tolerant country for transgender individuals in Asia. However, this is often "begrudging acceptance" rather than full equality. In rural areas, they may be tolerated but still face social stigma from families.

The equivalent term is bakla , though transpinay is also used specifically for transgender women.

Many are concentrated in the "kathoey career" path—entertainment (cabarets), beauty, and fashion. Discrimination in corporate and professional sectors remains high, often pushing individuals toward informal sectors or sex work for survival.