The Yellow Lahu (also known as the Lahu Shi, Kucong, Kui, Kwi) predominantly originated from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. The use of color as part of the name refers to the traditional color of their dress.

They migrated to the United States as refugees, first settling in California, then in Minnesota, North Carolina, Texas, and Utah. A large percentage of Yellow Lahu reside in Visalia, California, making Visalia home to the largest concentration of Lahu people outside of Asia.

The Lahu people are complex and diverse people. Even their alternate names listed above indicate their diversity. As a result, depending upon their tribal background, their languages are sometimes not mutually intelligible. Diversity is also seen in their religious adherence. The traditional Lahu religion was polytheistic. Buddhism was introduced in the late 17th century and became widespread.

Many Lahu religious practices in China are more a mixture of Buddhism and animistic beliefs, that is, they think everything in the world has its spirit. However, the majority of Lahu in the United States have converted to Protestant Christianity.