There are approximately 3000,000 Karen in Thailand, making them by for the most populous minority group here; there are in fact more Karen than all the other ethnic minorities in northern Thailand combined. They have also lived in this area far longer then the other mountain peoples. Over 200 years is probable, and perhaps much longer then that. Neigh boring Myanmar is home to over four million Karen.
The Karen inhabits many areas of western and northern Thailand, and can be divided into several sub-groups, the most numerous in Thailand being the Sgaw Karen and the Pwo Karen.  The Karen typically live at low altitudes and many have now integrated into mainstream Thai culture. They are famous for producing the best mahouts, or elephant handlers, in the region, and are known to be an exceptionally warm, friendly, and gentle people.