From Settlements to Symbolism: Exploring the Cultural Supply Chain and Market Spaces in Forest-Edge Karen Communities of Ratchaburi

This research aims to: (1) examine the characteristics of entrepreneur groups within the cultural supply chain in Karen communities of Bankha, Pak Tho, and Nong Ya Plong, shaped by changes in geographic settlement and livelihoods; and (2) compare the physical characteristics of cultural markets established within and outside the communities. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, using purposive sampling in seven ethnic community markets. Data collection methods include field observation, photography, and in-depth interviews, aiming to analyze the structure of the cultural supply chain and spatial usage in ethnic community cultural markets. The findings can be summarized as follows: (1) The supply chain consists of traditional craft producers, agricultural groups maintaining a lifestyle in harmony with nature, cultural support groups, and emerging creative producers; (2) Road access and distinctive natural features of the area directly influence the spatial layout of vendor zones; (3) Markets that embody symbolic meanings tend to attract more visitors; (4) The intensity of cultural capital in community commercial spaces follows a descending order: artisan households, community courtyards, cultural centers, local markets, and tourist markets; and (5) The identity of cultural markets is shaped more by conceptual representations in online media than by sensory experiences at the physical site.

• Cultural Market, Supply Chain, Ethnic-Karen Community, Cultural Capital, Market