After K-dramas, Thai dramas are all the rage right now. The most popular genre in Thai shows is arguably boys’ love stories, or BL. BLs are shows whose plotline focuses on romantic relationships between two male protagonists. These shows originally started to be produced back in early 2013, inspired by Japanese manga.
The appeal for Thai BL dramas is that they not only portray the queer love stories but also often tackle the issues of equality and LGBTQ+ rights in the society. The Thai BL market has somewhat gotten oversaturated with over 60+ shows being produced each year, so as a beginner, it might be an overwhelming choice to decide where to start. But worry not, there are 5 popular Thai BL dramas that you can watch as a beginner.
1. I Told The Sunset About You
A drama that can serve as a masterclass on the maladies of teenage love, the beauty that passing youth holds, and how fragile emotions can be is I Told Sunset About You. The plot follows the relationship of two teenagers, Teh and Oh-aew, and explores their relationship as they come to terms with identity, teenage angst, and love. Paired with the nuanced plotline is amazing cinematography and videography that will have you hooked from start to finish.
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2. SOTUS
This one follows the highs and lows of the lives of students at the engineering college. An engineering freshman stands up against the hazing culture of his school, but finds love amid the power struggle in a hierarchical school structure. What makes the show a fan favorite is the undeniable chemistry between the leads and also the development of all characters that drew out the plot of the show seamlessly.
3. TharnType
This one’s a cult classic in the land of BLs. Type Thiwat is a handsome freshman who despises gay people due to childhood trauma. His life changes when he is forced to share a dorm with his charismatic and openly gay roommate, Tharn Kirigun, a compassionate music major. The show does an amazing job is tackling homophobia and addressing sensitive issues while also serving fluffy moments between the two leads.
4. My Stand In
A fantasy drama show with a bit more serious twinge to it than others on the list. My Stand In is a drama that follows complex and flawed characters who you might need to give a few chances, but it’s all worth it in the end. Joe is a stuntman who is killed in an accident and mysteriously wakes up in the body of another man, now determined to avoid the same fate.
5. Top Form
Top Form is one of the biggest BLs airing right now. Based on the Japanese manga Daikichi, the story follows Akin, who has been recognized as “The Sexiest Man of the Year” for five consecutive years. However, his top position has been usurped by Jin. While Akin sees him as a rival, Jin, on the other hand, admires Akin greatly and is in love with him. The chemistry between the two leads is off the charts, which will have you swooning all through the show.
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