Lao PDR, also known as Laos, is a multiethnic country with a population of approximately 7 million people. The country’s population is made up of more than 100 different ethnic groups, each with their own distinct language, culture, and traditions.
The largest ethnic group in Laos is the Lao Loum, which makes up about two-thirds of the population. The Lao Loum are lowland rice farmers and live primarily in the Mekong River valley.
The Lao Theung, also known as the “upland Lao,” are the second-largest group and make up about a quarter of the population. They live in the mountainous areas of Laos and are primarily subsistence farmers.
The Lao Soung, also known as the “highland Lao,” are the smallest ethnic group in Laos and make up less than 5 percent of the population. They are also subsistence farmers and live in the remote mountainous regions of northern Laos.
In addition to these three main ethnic groups, there are many other smaller ethnic groups in Laos, including the Hmong, Khmu, and Tai groups. Each of these groups has its own unique language, culture, and traditions and contributes to the rich cultural diversity of Laos.
