INTRODUCTION The Liu Sanjie Ge Yao folk music, originating from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is a significant cul- tural artifact that embodies the rich heritage and traditions of the Zhuang people. As a form of Chinese folk music, Liu Sanjie Ge Yao is an artistic expression and a medium of sto- rytelling, communication, and cultural transmission. This folk music has been passed down through generations, pri- marily through oral traditions, and has played a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity of the Zhuang communi- ty (Jingfang, 2023; Lin & Liu, 2021; Shun & Boonsrianun, 2023). Despite its importance, the transmission and preser- vation of Liu Sanjie Ge Yao face numerous challenges in the modern era, where rapid globalization, urbanization, and technological advancements have significantly altered the landscape of cultural practices. Understanding how these changes impact the literacy and transmission of this folk music is crucial for ensuring its survival and relevance in contemporary society (Ho, 2018; Howard, 2016; Liu & Theerapan, 2024). The problem at the heart of this research is the gradual erosion of traditional folk music literacy within the Zhuang Published by Australian International Academic Centre PTY.LTD. Copyright (c) the author(s). This is an open access article under CC BY license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) http://dx.doi.org/10.7575/aiac.ijels.v.12n.4p.143 community, particularly concerning Liu Sanjie Ge Yao. As younger generations increasingly gravitate towards modern, globalized forms of entertainment, there is a growing dis- connect between them and their cultural heritage (Norton & Matsumoto, 2018; Wu, 2017). The traditional methods of transmitting Liu Sanjie Ge Yao, such as familial teaching and community gatherings, are becoming less effective in the face of these societal shifts. This disconnection threatens the continuity of this folk music tradition and undermines the broader cultural literacy vital for maintaining a strong sense of identity within the Zhuang community (Lee, 2019; Ishii, 2018; Wang & Thotham, 2024). The research thus seeks to address the gap between the older and younger generations in terms of their engagement with and understanding of Liu Sanjie Ge Yao, focusing on how literacy in this folk music can be fostered and preserved in a rapidly changing world. The significance of this study extends beyond the imme- diate context of the Zhuang community and Liu Sanjie Ge Yao. As one of the representative forms of Chinese folk mu- sic, the preservation and transmission of Liu Sanjie Ge Yao have broader implications for maintaining intangible cultur- al heritage within China. In global cultural homogenization, preserving such distinct cultural practices is essential for International Journal of Education & Literacy Studies ISSN: 2202-9478 www.ijels.aiac.org.au ABSTRACT Liu Sanjie Ge Yao, a significant cultural artifact among the Zhuang people in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, faces challenges due to modernization and globalization, threatening its continuity. The primary objective is to investigate and analyze Chinese folk music literacy through the transmission and preservation on the Liu Sanjie Ge Yao folk music within the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The research was conducted in the Hechi area of Guangxi, which is known for its rich cultural traditions. Four key informants, including a folk artist, cultural preservationist, educator, and community leader, were interviewed, and data were collected through participant observation during cultural events and document analysis of relevant archival materials. The study employed a qualitative research methodology, with thematic analysis revealing that integrating Liu Sanjie Ge Yao into formal and informal educational settings significantly enhances folk music literacy. However, challenges such as the generational gap in interest and the declining effectiveness of traditional transmission methods were also identified. The study suggests that innovative approaches, including using digital platforms and blending traditional and contemporary musical elements, are essential for the sustainable preservation of Liu Sanjie Ge Yao. Future research should explore the longitudinal impacts of educational programs and strategies to engage younger generations. Key words: Liu Sanjie Ge Yao, Chinese Folk Music Literacy, Cultural Preservation, Zhuang Community, Guangxi Chinese Folk Music Literacy: A Study on the Liu Sanjie Ge Yao Folk Music in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Yiying Li*, Noppon Chaiyason College of Music, Mahasarakham University, Thailand. Corresponding author: Yiying Li, E-mail: yiyingli.msu@gmail.com ARTICLE INFO Article history Received: July 24, 2024 Accepted: October 09, 2024 Published: October 31, 2024 Volume: 12 Issue: 4 Conflicts of interest: None Funding: None