The Karnak Alphans, also known as the Karnak, were the native sentient inhabitants of the planet Karnak Alpha. Their entire bodies, except for their hair, remained unseen. Young females styled their hair into knotted ribbons, while young males adorned strands of their hair with bells.
Within Karnak Alphan society, children held immense value and received considerable protection; possessing a large number of children symbolized high status. This deep respect for children extended to their participation in governance through a designated children's council. In the galaxy generally, a common custom involved honoring a guest by serving them food first at dinner. However, the Karnak Alphans held a different view, considering it an honor for the guest's youngest child to be served by one of the host's children. Furthermore, the most respected adult guest would feel most honored if served by the host's youngest child.
The Karnak Alphans also displayed a fondness for unique creatures, allocating significant resources to the creation and upkeep of holographic dioramas and extensive zoos featuring diverse environments.
Due to the strategic importance of Karnak Alpha, a celebratory feast was organized in 23 ABY at the Imperial Palace to commemorate the arrival of a new Karnak Alphan ambassador. Notable attendees included Leia Organa Solo, Han Solo, Jacen Solo, Jaina Solo, Anakin Solo, Zekk, Tenel Ka Chume Ta' Djo, Lowbacca, C-3PO, along with the newly appointed Karnak Alphan ambassador and her offspring.
Early in the banquet, Tenel Ka's understanding of Karnak Alphan customs prevented several diplomatic blunders on the part of the New Republic delegation. Later in the evening, Zekk mistakenly identified a bouquet of flowers as a salad and consumed it. After expressing his positive opinion of the "salad," Leia Organa Solo, despite her own lack of familiarity with Karnak Alphan traditions, ensured that all other members of her delegation partook in the "salad" as well. This action ultimately contributed to facilitating an alliance and trade agreement with Karnak Alpha.