This illustrated talk addresses the cultural significance of Thailand’s popular “BL” (Boys’ Love” or “Y”) dramas. The phrase “Thai Wind” has been coined to evoke their international popularity and impact, in analogy with the “Korean Wave” of K-pop and K-dramas. The talk defines what they are (and what they’re not). How has the BL industry come to be regarded as “Thailand’s newest soft power”, receiving commercial and government support and the endorsement of organisations such as the Thailand Foundation?

Focusing on the dramas made or set in Chiang Mai and the North, the talk examines how the region is represented in them, and introduces some of the writers, producers, directors and actors who create them. It will also seek to answer the question: Why have some of the most memorable BL dramas come from the North?

NB. The talk includes some clips accessed from YouTube.