Top five most successful GL pairings (in my opinion)
Freenbecky
Lingorm
Englot
Milklove
Lenamiu
And WHY
Freenbecky- The first thai GL pair to achieve massive mainstream international fandom. Their series "Gap the series" exploded locally and internationally and first thai GL to reportedly surpass hundreds of millions of views on youtube (currently on track to reach a billion by year end). They opened the door for thai companies like gmmtv, ch3, change2561 to invest into GL proving that it can be successful and achieve mainstream and global success. Without Freenbecky, GAP, Saint and Idolfactory, the modern thai GL wave would likely have been smaller, slower or delayed.
Lingorm- helped prove that GL can be highly profitable through their collaborations with luxury brands like Dior. They are the brand ambassador/global brand ambassador of Dior and other brands which proved that GL pairings could attract luxury brands and major endorsement. According to Lefty, LingOrm surpassed expectations by ranking #1 in EMV, MIV, and SOV (outperforming kpop stars) during several fashion weeks demonstrating the power of collective fandoms. Only you starring Lingorm was the first Thai GL series to air in primetime slot achieving an average of 1.8 tv ratings paving the way for more Thai GL to feature in primetime slot.
Englot- the undeniable explosion of the Englot pair helped proved the massive demand for Thai GL pairing and shipping culture. MGI has been increasing leaning into the GL style shipping culture by promoting chemistry, fan interactions and fandom pairings among the contestants. This allowed MGI a major entertainment company to test the waters in GL by investing into GL series like show me love.
Milklove- They were one of the first GL pairings promoted by GMMTV. They helped normalize GL in mainstream thai youth dramas. Their series "23.5" was likely the first major Thai GL series to be distributed on Netflix reaching the number #1 spot on Netflix thailand according to flixpatrol. The success of this series showed companies that GL pairings could generate high engagement and popularity.
Lenamiu- One of the most promising emerging couples in the GL industry. Their series "My Safe Zone" gained mainstream recognition in Thailand and huge international attention. They are viewed as one of the fashion couples because of their high visuals, styling and strong presence in fashion. According to reports, Lenamiu were the first Thai GL pair to be invited to represent Chanel (the luxury brand).
Honorable mentions- Ginjay, Namtamfilm, Emibonnie, Applemim, Kaojane, EnjoyJune, mablepangjie, shellypundao
Lots of research was put into this. Some people would say top three is nailed on. 1. Freenbecky, 2. Lingorm and 3. Englot. There were so much pairings that can go fifth place but I settled for lenamiu.
What are your thoughts?