While battling burnout and depression in her hometown in China, Huang Bingbing found solace in the romantic story of two young men in a Thai TV drama she stumbled upon on social media five years ago. The same-sex romance in “Love by Chance” captivated her, leading her to move to Thailand a year later to start a new life. Huang is among the growing number of fans of the “boys’ love” genre that has gained popularity across Asia.
The boys’ love genre, originating from Japanese manga comics in the ’60s and known as “yaoi,” has become a significant cultural export from Thailand. Huang shared, “People here are accepting of all kinds of love, regardless of gender, making them all equal.” This genre, known as BL, resonates with straight female viewers due to its attractive couples, romantic themes, and messages of self-acceptance.
Thailand’s BL series have garnered millions of views online and have also found success in countries like China and Japan. Additionally, girls’ love, a genre featuring same-sex female couples, is gaining popularity. Fans go to great lengths to meet their favorite stars and show their support, similar to the devotion seen among K-pop enthusiasts.
– Thailand’s Influence –
Despite the Chinese government’s ban on producing or broadcasting such dramas, Thai BLs have found a dedicated audience in China. BL series have also captivated fans in Japan, where a Thai-themed cafe in Tokyo has become a hub for BL enthusiasts. The genre’s popularity surged during the pandemic, with Thailand being a standout for its exceptional productions.
Thailand has seen a rise in BL production in recent years, with an increasing number of shows being produced. This growth has extended to more conservative societies like India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where fans often keep their love for BL discreet due to societal constraints.
– Advocating for Change –Â
Though Thailand is poised to legalize same-sex marriage, there is still progress to be made in changing attitudes towards LGBTQ individuals. Despite the popularity of BL series, they do not always address the challenges faced by Thailand’s LGBTQ community. Some in the industry hope to use their work to promote LGBTQ rights, including gender and marriage equality, in popular culture.
Actor Suppapong Udomkaewkanjana, known for his role in “Love by Chance,” aims to advocate for gender and marriage equality through his TV productions. His dedication to these causes was evident as he prayed for the success of his latest girls’ love show in Bangkok, emphasizing the potential of BL series to drive positive change in society.
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