In a stark contrast to the cancellation of LGBTQ+-inclusive series by major U.S. streaming services last year, Thailand has emerged as a frontrunner, premiering over 50 Boys Love (BL) series in 2022 alone. Originating from Japanese gay manga comics, the BL genre portrays gay romances set in a world relatively free from homophobia. While the shows have found immense success in Asia, their impact on other continents has been mostly limited, drawing attention to the parallel world of Girls’ Love (GL) series struggling to make their mark in the market.
Japan initially dominated the export of BL series, but as the genre evolved, Thailand swiftly emerged as the dominant voice, thanks in part to the pandemic’s influence, which even affected tourism in the country. This success has prompted the Thai government to accommodate LGBTQ+ content, fostering an environment where money flows into the country. These series are often aired on alternative platforms or channels, separate from traditional soap operas, appeasing conservative factions.
However, the circumstances surrounding GL series have taken a different turn. While several Asian countries offered a modest catalog of GL series with moderate success, it is intriguing to note that secondary characters featuring women couples have resonated the most with audiences in recent times. Then, in 2022, a pivotal moment occurred. Thai actor Suppapong Udomkaewkanjana, also known as Saint, established his own agency, Idol Factory. While producing their first BL series, Saint discovered the perfect leads for a GL series within his cast: Sarocha Chankimha (Freen) and Becky Armstrong. The chemistry between the actresses was undeniable, leading them to take a risk.
Saint and Idol Factory embarked on a project centered around these actresses, eventually crafting the perfect product: an adaptation of the sapphic Japanese Yuri genre novel, “Gap: Pink Theory.” The team secured a television channel and YouTube platform to broadcast the show, providing uncut versions with subtitles in multiple languages for international audiences. Boasting an enchanting soundtrack and an unforgettable couple, “Gap” garnered over 500 million views, swiftly becoming a global phenomenon and solidifying the presence of GL series with a dedicated fan base.
The success of “Gap” triggered an avalanche effect, resulting in a surge of GL projects. Approximately 20 series are in development across various Thai platforms and television channels. Freen and Armstrong have already signed on for a movie and another series together, with plans for a world tour to engage with their passionate “Gap” fans. Notably, popular Korean actress Han So-Hee, known for her role in the Netflix film “Nevertheless,” is set to release a GL film titled “Heavy Snow.” This upcoming project could further amplify the visibility and expansion of the GL genre.
While the BL genre has faced criticism from members of the LGBTQ+ community in Asia for perpetuating unrealistic and stereotypical narratives, its growing popularity has undeniably sparked conversations about LGBTQ+ rights. Remarkably, despite commanding an abundance of GL and BL content, most Asian countries still impose restrictions on the liberties and rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Even in Thailand, celebrated for its queer-friendly reputation, marriage equality remains elusive. Taiwan stands as the sole Asian nation that has legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.
The struggle for LGBTQ+ rights is a global battle, and progress can only be achieved through cross-cultural learning and shared experiences. Promoting quality content that includes authentic representation must align with laws and protections for the LGBTQ+ community, not solely for commercial reasons but because it is the morally right course of action.