The "Longneck"community in Thailand refers to the Karen tribe, best known for their tradition of wearing long metal rings around the neck, which lengthens the neck over time. This practice is mainly carried out by women, and the aim is to highlight their beauty. The Longneck Karen, or "Kayan" as they are often called, live in the mountainous areas of northern Thailand, close to the border with Myanmar (Burma).
Many of the Longneck women wear not only neck rings, but also rings around the arms and legs. Wearing the rings is seen as a symbolic sign of status and beauty within their culture. However, there are many debates about the ethics of tourism around these communities, as some people see the practice as a way to lure tourists, while others see the culture as a form of self-expression.
Many visitors go to northern Thailand, specifically to places like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, to experience this unique culture. However, this sometimes raises concerns about the impact of tourism on local communities.