The key to understanding Seoun Som's work is to understand his history. Seoun Som was born in Thailand at a refugee camp, after his parents escaped the genocide of the Khmer Rouge regime. His family later immigranted to Australia, where he was raised.

Currently, Seoun Som resides in the United States in Youngstown, Ohio and has earned a B.F.A from Youngstown State University.

An advid photographer, Seoun Som's work explores identity, spirituality, and history. Much of his work expands beyond the traditional two-dimensionality of photography by pushing it towards the world of installation and performance.