A new catchy single by a Taiwanese singer who borrows heavily from Thai culture to either celebrate or mock it was winning praise in the kingdom today.
Mai Tong Klua, a new single and music video by Show Lo, has earned a million views today for its easy to follow lyrics and sendup of Thailand.
In the video, Show Lo wears Thai traditional clothes while playing with Thai phrases that sound similar to Chinese such as mai mee (“buy rice,” in Mandarin), mai chai (“buy vegetables”), and mai tong klua (“buy a winter melon”). While the scenes lean heavily into stereotypes, it seems intent on being a silly homage.
The video is chockablock with scenes of Thai tropes including tuk-tuks, familiar street markets, temple fairs, milk tea, and coconut water.
Thais have flocked to the comments to praise the video, which was clearly designed to appeal to the Thai market and includes native Thai subtitles.
“This is hilarious and sooooo enjoyable to watch,” one comment read. “Your Thai pronunciation is so good I rarely had to read the subtitles. I’m glad you love our culture, and we love your work here too.”
“I’m sure this song will be wildly famous for the coming New Year’s celebration in Thailand. Thank you so much for using our phrases in your masterpiece.”
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