: Perspectives on identity vary; some individuals who undergo full gender reassignment surgery view themselves as real women , while others maintain a distinct kathoey or "third gender" identity.

: In Thailand, kathoey have historically been viewed as a sacred or legitimate third gender , with roots in Buddhist teachings on rebirth.

: While widely used in Southeast Asian tourism and entertainment, the term can be controversial. In Western contexts, it is sometimes viewed as offensive or fetishistic, whereas, in Thailand, it is often used as a self-identifier within a specific cultural subgroup. Social and Economic Realities