In Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Y Thu K'nul is remembered as a legendary figure known for capturing and taming wild elephants. He and the young men of his tribe traveled across vast forests stretching from Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Lam Dong, to Cambodia and Laos to hunt and domesticate wild elephants.

During these expeditions, Y Thu's group captured an albino elephant bearing extremely rare black tusks. Y Thu voluntarily presented this elephant to the King of Thailand, who, in admiration, bestowed upon him the noble title “Khunjunop” - meaning “Elephant King.”

The story of this legendary figure is passed down through generations like an epic saga. His descendants regard him with deep reverence as a symbol of perseverance and bravery.

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H'Ngua Bya (right) next to a portrait of her great-granduncle Y Thu K'nul. Photo: Hai Duong

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A young Y Thu (right) in a rare photo taken by a professional photographer. Photo: Hai Duong

According to H'Ngua Bya (also known as Ami Phuong, the great-granddaughter of Y Thu's younger sister), Y Thu K'nul was born in 1828 and passed away in 1938. He was of the M’nong ethnic group, with a Lao mother, a biological M’nong father, and an adoptive Lao father. Local folklore held that Y Thu was a child blessed by the gods.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Y Thu and many other migrants from Dak Nong followed the Serepok River to Buon Don, where they eventually settled near the Seven-Branch Waterfall and founded their own village.

At that time, the area was under the leadership of Yă Wam, a woman of the Ede ethnic group. Y Thu purchased land from her, spanning from a dry creek to the boundary between Buon Don and Ea Sup. He and his people began cultivating the land and centered their livelihood around capturing and taming wild elephants.

Together with his nephew R'leo, Y Thu captured the famed albino elephant with black tusks. To express friendship and goodwill between the peoples, he presented the elephant to the King of Thailand.

In return, the Thai monarch awarded him the prestigious title “Khunjunop,” honoring his skill and contribution. The title brought Y Thu widespread fame and respect, especially among communities in Cambodia and Laos.

Tamer of over 400 wild elephants

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Inside Ami Phuong’s home are several childhood photos of the Elephant King Y Thu K'nul. Photo: Hai Duong

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The graves of Y Thu (left) and his nephew R'leo (right) in the K'nul family cemetery. Photo: Hai Duong

Ami Phuong shared that although Y Thu had a wife, he had no biological children. When his sister gave birth to a son named R'leo, Y Thu adopted and raised him. R'leo would later become a renowned elephant hunter in his own right.

Ami Phuong noted that Y Thu K'nul was the founder of Buon Don and was responsible for capturing and taming over 400 wild elephants. His successors included R’leo K’nul with more than 300 elephants, and Ama Kong, who captured 298.

“Back then, Y Thu was the most powerful tribal leader in the Central Highlands. He was incredibly wealthy and invested heavily in other talented men of Buon Don like R’leo, Y Keo, and Ama Kong to venture deep into the forest to capture and train elephants,” she added.

Beyond his mastery of elephant taming, Y Thu was also known for his trade expertise and extensive regional connections.

Y Thu and his tribe frequently transported goods and captured elephants across borders to trade in Laos and Thailand, earning deep respect from local communities.

He passed away in 1938 at the age of 110. His family buried him near the ranger station in Yok Don National Park. His worship is now overseen by a great-great-grandchild.

Today, Y Thu’s grave lies about 500 meters from Provincial Road 1, beside the resting place of his nephew R'leo K'nul. The site has become a notable tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over.

Ami Phuong’s family also preserves many relics from Y Thu's life, including photographs taken in France by a relative and sent back to the family as cherished mementos.

Hai Duong