Introduction / History

Strangely, the Puoc were counted as a distinct ethnic group in the 1985 Lao census but were not listed in the 1995 census. It is likely they have been incorporated into the Pong ethnic group.

In northern Laos, the Puoc primarily inhabit villages along the Et River in the Xiangkho District of Houaphan Province. A small number live in Thailand, and a larger number are in Vietnam.

In Vietnam the Puoc are officially known as the Xinh Mun. Despite their similar-sounding names, the Xinh Mun are not related to the Singmoon ethnic group in Laos, who live near the Thai border.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Puoc communities are often mixed with the Tai Dam. Puoc women also wear clothing and headdresses similar to the Tai Dam. They wear a short vest that has a row of silver buttons carefully made in the shape of butterfly wings. Puoc women are in the habit of chewing betel-nut, which stains their teeth black. Black teeth "are so highly esteemed that one never sees a white tooth save in the mouth of a very young child. Betel-chewing tends to darken the enamel and chut is carefully rubbed on to intensify the black, for it is a common saying, 'Any dog can have white teeth'."

Three generations of the same family living under the one roof is common among the Puoc. Their homes are separated into two main sections. One section called the plang is reserved for single men or guests of the family. It also contains the altar for worshiping spirits. The second part, called the xia is the main section where the family sleeps, cooks and eats.

The two main family names among the Puoc are Vi and Lo. Each lineage shares a certain animal that is sacred to them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Puoc are an animistic people who are bound by the spirit world.

What Are Their Needs?

The region inhabited by the Puoc on both sides of the Laos-Vietnam border has received very little Christian witness in the past. The nearest community of believers is probably near the city of Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam.

Prayer Items

Pray the long-neglected area where the Puoc live would soon be saturated with the gospel leading to a movement to Christ.

Ask God to make the Puoc hungry to seek for the truth.

Pray the Puoc would have a godly remnant in their midst, as a witness to those who don't know him.

Scripture Prayers for the Xinh Mun in Vietnam.

References

Peoples of Laos, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission