Min Nan, also known as Southern Min, is a Chinese language group primarily spoken in the southern part of Fujian province, Taiwan, and among overseas Chinese communities in Southeast Asia. It is one of the major Chinese dialects and has several regional variations, including Hokkien and Teochew. Min Nan is characterized by its unique phonetics and vocabulary, which can differ significantly from Mandarin.
The language has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of literature, music, and theater. Min Nan is often used in traditional forms of Chinese opera and folk songs, reflecting the daily lives and beliefs of its speakers. Despite its regional focus, Min Nan plays an important role in the identity of many communities.