Folk Beliefs in Constructing Social Representation of the Thai Chinese in the Context of Proculturation
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Abstract
This study examines Thai Chinese beliefs, particularly those involving the deities Pun Tao Kong and Guan Gong, in northeastern Thailand. Qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews and participant observation, were used to explore the process of Thai Chinese proculturation within the host society. The findings demonstrate that while early Thai Chinese folk religious practices functioned primarily as mechanisms for ethnic identity preservation, these communities subsequently underwent a transformative process in which universal spiritual aspirations were synthesized with indigenous merit-making traditions, thereby reconstituting their social representation within the local cultural landscape. To facilitate deeper integration into the host society, Thai Chinese communities have engaged in both diachronic and synchronic reconstructions of Pun Tao Kong and Guan Gong belief systems by symbolically recontextualizing temple-based activities and ceremonial practices. The evolution of these folk beliefs marks a paradigmatic shift from earlier forms of cultural distinction toward greater cultural shareability and mutual accessibility. The physical spaces associated with these belief systems have increasingly served as platforms for social welfare and charitable initiatives, benefiting the broader local community and fostering reciprocal cultural exchange between Thai Chinese and indigenous traditions. Thai Chinese folk religious practices have been successfully incorporated into local cultural resources, making substantial contributions to Thailand’s cultural development, tourism sector, and philanthropic infrastructure. This reciprocal relationship exemplifies how proculturation processes generate mutually beneficial outcomes for multicultural coexistence, wherein cultural preservation and cultural innovation occur simultaneously, creating advantages for all participants within the heterogeneous cultural milieu.
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Interviews
Ms. Chatchaya. (pseudonym) (2021, November 21). Interview. A local government staff. Interview conducted at Guandi Temple, Nong Paen village, Kalasin province.
Ms. Kamon. (pseudonym) (2024, December 12). Interview. A middle school Chinese teacher in Khon Kaen. Online interview conducted at Khon Kaen University.
Ms. Kullasatree. (pseudonym) (2024, December 14). Interview. A graduate of Khon Kaen University. Interview conducted at Khon Kaen University.
Mr. Natakan. (pseudonym) (2025, April 22). Interview. A middle school Chinese teacher in Ban Phai district, Khon Kaen. Interview conducted at Khon Kaen University.
Ms. Nidkan. (pseudonym) (2025, April 21). Interview. A freelancer in Sawang Daen Din district, Sakon Nakhon province. Online interview conducted at Khon Kaen University.
Mr. Phusanam. (pseudonym) (2025, July 11). Interview. A retired teacher in Roi Et province. Interview conducted at his home in Roi Et.
Ms. Pittanee. (pseudonym) (2025, April 11). Interview. An educator in Kalasin province. Interview conducted at Guandi Temple, Nong Paen village, Kalasin province.
Mr. Samart. (pseudonym) (2024, December 21). Interview. An office worker at Tukcom Shopping Mall in Khon Kaen city. Interview conducted at Tukcom Shopping Mall, Khon Kaen.
Mr. Thewarit. (pseudonym) (2024, March 10). Interview. A middle school student in Kongchai district, Kalasin province. Interview conducted at Guandi Temple, Nong Paen village, Kalasin province.
Ms. Wannicha. (pseudonym) (2025, April 21). Interview. Owner of a beef noodle shop on Mittraphab Road in Khon Kaen city. Interview conducted at her shop, Khon Kaen.
Mr. Warton. (pseudonym) (2024, March 21). Interview. Former member of council of the Pun Tao Kong Temple in Khon Kaen. Interview conducted at his home in Khon Kaen.
