"Pheng Xat Lao" was composed by Dr. Thongdy Sounthonevichit (1905-1968) in 1941 and adopted as the national anthem of the Kingdom of Laos in 1947. The original lyrics were replaced when the Lao People's Democratic Republic was established in 1975.

Transliteration of Lao lyrics

Xatlao tangtae dayma lao thookthuana xeutxoo sootchay,
Huamhaeng huamchit huamchay samakkhikan pen kamlang diao.
Detdiao phomkan kaona booxa xukiat khong lao,
Songseum xaysit pen chao laothook xonphao sameu pabkan.
Bo hay foong chackkaphat lae phuak khayxat khaomalob kuan,
Lao thangmuan xoo ekkalat itsalaphab khong xatlao vay,
Tatsin chay soo xing ao xay phaxat kaopay soo khuam vatthana.

English translation

For all time the Lao people have glorified their Fatherland,
United in heart, spirit and vigour as one.
Resolutely moving forwards,
Respecting and increasing the dignity of the Lao people
And proclaiming the right to be their own masters.
The Lao people of all origins are equal
And will no longer allow imperialists and traitors to harm them.
The entire people will safeguard the independence
And the freedom of the Lao nation.
They are resolved to struggle for victory
In order to lead the nation to prosperity.