The Hmong people originate from Tibet, Siberia and Mongolia, immigrating to China over 3,000 years ago where they settled down in areas around the Yellow River (Huang Ho), Kwaijoa, Hunnam, Kwangsi and Yunnan. In the 17th century, during China's Manju Dynasty (Hmeng), the King changed policies to suppress Hmong people who were refusing to practice and believe in Chinese culture and traditions.

Eventually the Hmong people were defeated, moving to the south of China, disbanding into smaller groups. Most of these groups lived on the hills in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China, while another group of immigrants lived north-east of Laos around Dien Bien Phu. In 1857, the first group of Hmong migrated to Northern Thailand.

In Thailand today, with a population of just over 150,000, the Hmong people have established villages on the hills and lowlands around Chiang Rai, Payao, Chiang Mai, Prae, Lampang, Khampang Phet, Loei, Phisanulok, Phetchabun, Tak and Mae Hong Son.