If you are aware of the term Boys Love (BLs), the first word that comes to mind might be Thailand. Boys’ Love is a fictional genre that centres around romantic and sensual relationships between men and is generally catered to a female audience. While finding its roots in Japan, the BL genre is now more synonymous with Thai media. Producing hit BL shows like 2gether and KinnPorsche that are loved worldwide, here is how Thailand became the home country of BLs and the actors who are leading the trend.
Why Are BLs So Popular In Thailand
Thailand is a country that allows one to freely express their gender and s*xuality. New generation media is also getting inclined more towards the concept of gender fluidity without having to censor itself. This has led to the rise of more prominent stories about the LGBTQ communities being told. The reason why BLs are so popular is that they are relatable and realistic. They feel like a breath of fresh air.
GMMTV’s Role
Because of Thailand’s open and accepting nature, entertainment companies were easily able to commodify this genre by producing BL shows without any restrictions. GMMTV is one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates that produced the hit show, SOTUS The Series. After this, the gates for BLs were opened. Hit shows like TharnType, Their Of Love, and many more started being produced and gaining global recognition.
ZeenNuNew, YinWar And Other Popular Ships
One thing that many people miss when analysing Thailand’s BL craze from the outside is how much the fan culture plays a part in its popularity. The actors starring in these shows are not only together in the series, but also are given designated ‘ships’ and fandoms together. YinWar, a ship consisting of actors Yin Anan Wong and War Wanarat Ratsameerat from the show Love Mechanics, is currently one of the most popular ships in BLs.
Actors Zee Pruk and NuNew currently starring in the drama The Next Prince, also have a dedicated fandom for their ship, Zeenunew. Known for both their onscreen and offscreen chemistry, ZeeNuNew have received multiple awards, including the “Most Popular Male Artist” award for NuNew at the Kazz Awards and recognition at the 9enter Awards. Their popularity has also led to numerous brand collaborations and endorsements, highlighting their marketability.
Theory Of Love stars Jumpol Adulkittiporn (Off) and Atthaphan Phunsawat (Gun), known as OffGun, have also garnered a massive following and are the faces of many luxury brands and endorsements.
Also Read: From T-Pop To Thai Cuisine, Decoding Thailand’s Journey To Becoming The Next Global Influence
Boys Love in Thailand has evolved from just a genre to an entire market and brand, with popular actors becoming the faces of it. We cannot for what’s next to come for the subgenre.
Also Read: Who Is NuNew? Everything You Need To Know About Thailand’s Most Loved Young Actor