Ang Thong Woman's Metre-long Hair Draws Crowd

A 65-year-old woman named Boonchu caught eyes at Ang Thong's Suwaphan Mueang Thong market with her one-meter-long tangled hair, which she has not cut for over a decade. Boonchu revealed that her hair naturally formed into a thick, rope-like cluster over time without any salon intervention. This hairstyle hasn't hindered her daily activities, as she maintains it with regular washing and thorough drying.

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The transformation began after a previous experience when cutting her tangled hair led to a severe illness, leaving her bedridden. Once recovered, Boonchu ordained as a nun for some time, dedicating herself to merit-making. After leaving the nunhood, she let her hair grow naturally, resulting in the same tangled form, which she has since refrained from cutting.

In Thai culture, this type of tangled hair is known as "phom phi chor" or "ghost hair," considered to be tied by spirits. Believers suggest such hair shouldn't be cut without a ritual performed by a spiritual leader, as improper cutting is feared to bring misfortune or illness. Boonchu's hair has become a point of interest among marketgoers, with many perceiving it as spiritually significant.

As Boonchu continues to avoid cutting her hair, her unique style remains a topic of curiosity and respect among locals. Her decision ties closely to the cultural beliefs surrounding ghost hair, attracting both attention and admiration at the market.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 30 Apr 2026