The Boys’ Love (or BL) genre has become a must-watch in the world of Asian dramas. Originally from Japan in the form of manga (called yaoi), this genre features romantic relationships between men, often with a polished aesthetic and a strong emotional (and/or sexual) charge. BL has won over millions of fans across the globe thanks to its unique blend of tenderness, romantic tension, and, at times, social critique.
BOYS’LOVE
Once considered niche, BL now boasts bigger budgets, global streaming platforms (like iQIYI, Viki, GagaOOLala, and YouTube), and actors who have become true icons.
Now let me tell you about my favorites – the must-watch series!!
–> Let’s start with my top 3 (in no particular order):
I fell into the world of BL movies thanks to KinnPorsche. I’ll admit it hit hard right from the start — maybe too hard — because not many BLs have matched it since. But I do have a few other favorites like Top Form and My Stand-In.
Synopsis : Kinn, heir to a mafia clan, is saved by Porsche, a young waiter who quickly becomes his bodyguard. Their initially hostile relationship turns increasingly intimate. This series became a cult classic, mixing romance, action, mafia dynamics, and desire. A modern BL staple known for its dramatic tension and steamy scenes (OMG, seriously…).
Highlights : The relationship between Mile and Apo is intense and magnetic. High-end production quality, everything feels believable. A well-executed blend of mafia action and BL romance — which is rare to pull off.
Main cast : Phakphum Romsaithong (aka Mile) as Kinn.
Nattawin Wattanagitiphat (aka Apo) as Porsche.
Synopsis : Akin, a 30-something actor and five-time “Sexiest Man of the Year,” sees his fame threatened by Jin, a rising new star. What starts as rivalry quickly turns into mutual fascination. Over time, the lines between mentorship and seduction blur, sparking a passion that’s both creative and addictive.
Highlights : A meta take on the acting industry. Electric chemistry between the two leads. Memorable scenes, like Akin’s guided emotion exercise — considered “one of the best BL acting moments.”
Main cast : Boom Raweewit (aka Boom) as Akin.
Smart Chisanupong (aka Smart) as Jin.
Synopsis : Joe, the stand-in for a famous actor, falls in love with Ming, a wealthy heir. But when he realizes Ming only loved him as a replacement for a former flame, Joe walks away. He dies on set… and wakes up in another body. As Ming deals with his mistakes, fate offers them a second chance. But will history repeat itself?
Highlights : A beautiful story backed by powerful performances. Intense (sometimes toxic) dynamics, full of twists. A clever mix of romance, suspense, and fantasy.
Main cast : Poom Phuripan as Joe.
Up Poompat as Ming.
–> This Chinese BL defies all limitations imposed by Chinese censorship — and yes, it includes snakes (which I absolutely love!).
Synopsis : Wu Suo Wei, a working-class young man, gets dumped by his girlfriend — for Chi Cheng, a wealthy heir. Seeking revenge, he tries to seduce Chi Cheng, despite having no real interest in men. But things backfire when real feelings start to grow, creating an explosive mix of manipulation, emotional complexity, and existential crises.
Highlights : An intense, well-written enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Amazing chemistry between the two leads. A unique tone that blends quirky comedy with genuine romance.
Main cast : Zi Yu as Wu Suowei.
Tian Xuning as Chi Cheng.
–> Starting from a basic office setting and a super kitschy poster, this series had me hooked from episode one!
Synopsis : Jun, a cheeky young man, loves teasing Sorn, who’s a bit older. After two years apart, they reunite at work — Jun as an intern and Sorn as a staff member, trying to resist his lingering feelings. Their relationship swings between conflict and attraction, love and hate. The series explores themes of maturity, sexual tension, and personal growth in an intense, provocative romance.
Highlights : A modern, relatable setting. A satisfying slow burn (emotionally slow, but not too slow sexually!). Bonus: there’s some Girl Love too!
Main cast : Boat Yongyut Termtuo as Sorn.
Oat Pasakorn Sanrattana as Jun.
–> If you’re looking for fan service, go for Next Prince and The Boy Next World.
Not the best acting out there, but the chemistry and charisma of the leads totally make up for it. Personally, I preferred The Boy Next World‘s story over Next Prince.
Synopsis : Khanin, raised in England as a regular boy, discovers he’s actually heir to the throne. Charan, a royal guard, finds him and begins training him for an upcoming fencing tournament that will decide the next king. Amid conspiracies and assassination attempts, palace life draws them closer, and their professional bond evolves into a romantic one.
Main cast : Chawarin Perdpiriyawong (aka NuNew) as Khanin Assavadevathin.
Pruk Panich (aka Zee) as Charan.
Synopsis : Phukan, a student who’s never been in love, has his world turned upside down when Cirrus, a mysterious senior, knocks on his door. Cirrus claims they’re a couple — in a parallel universe — and that he knows everything about Phukan. Initially skeptical, Phukan slowly falls for him… until he learns Cirrus must choose between staying with him or returning to his own world.
Main cast : Boss Chaikamon Sermsongwittaya as Cirrus.
Noeul Nuttarat Tangwai as Phukan.
–> Other recommendations: Reset, Ball Boy Tactics, Sing in Love
YOU NEVER KNOW 
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