Thais find super-human power in magic tattoos

Wat Bang Phra resembles a lunatic asylum, as hundreds of tattooed men screeming, laughing and running around to the chanting of monks, as if they are possessed.

They say the chanting brings out the supernatural power of their inks.
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Yan tattoos are increasingly popular in Thailand. It's an ancient belief dating back hundreds of years. Some people think their tattoos provide protection.

"I managed to escape from my enemies, because of the special powers of the tattoo," says Noom Korat.

"It brings great luck, success, and attracts money. The tattoo represents the birth, death and enlightenment of Lord Buddha," says Ajarn Noo, the most famous tattoo artist. People pay hundreds of dollars for his designs.

Even Hollywood celebrity Angelina Jolie traveled to Thailand to get herself a huge Yan tattoo of a tiger in 2004. Ajarn Noo is proudly displaying the photos of her on the wall of his Bangkok tattoo parlour.