Hmong people are a hill tribe group scattered throughout Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Burma and China. Originally from China, the Hmong have been migrating into Laos, Vietnam, Burma and Thailand throughout the last century. They are the second largest hill tribe group in Thailand. (There are 6 main tribal groups living in the mountainous areas in northern Thailand, each with their own distinctive language and culture. These tribal people live in small villages and exist the same way they have for centuries.) Hmong people are a simple but independent people who live off of the rice, vegetables and fruit they grow, as well as the animals they raise. The women make beautiful hand embroidered clothes that are highly sought after.

Hmong people are animist, which means they believe an endless succession of placating the spirits is necessary for health and the things they need. They believe there are spirits inhabiting trees, plants, animals and even certain places. Each house has a shelf with paraphernalia to protect the family against evil spirits and for use in rituals. If someone is sick, a witch doctor is called in and offerings are made in an effort to appease the offended spirit. Their entire lives are bound up in spirit worship.