What are Phi Song Nang?

Background

According to Thai folklore, Phi Song Nang are female spirits who live in the forests and rivers. They often take the form of beautiful women and use their charm to lure unsuspecting young men into the woods. Once their victim is alone, the Phi Song Nang attack and kill him.

In some versions of the legend, the spirits then eats his flesh, while in other versions it simply wants to suck out his blood. The Phi Song Nang is a feared spirit in Thai culture, and its story is often used to warn young men of the dangers of venturing into the wilderness alone.

The motif of the Phi Song Nang has been taken up in various Thai works.