Let’s Talk… BL/GL Industry Trends for 2026
BL | GL Trends for 2026
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BL | GL Trends for 2026 〰️
The year 2026 is set to be a year of "Genre Revolution" and "Scale Expansion." Producers will no longer compete solely on the quantity of series produced but will instead battle on "novelty" and "global-tier quality" to secure space in the international market.
1. Content Evolution: From Campus to Fantasy and Mature Drama
The "Coming of Age" genre set in schools or universities will begin to saturate. Producers will shift toward more complex and challenging plots:
Fantasy & Supernatural: We will see series exploring supernatural themes such as vampires, parallel worlds, or special powers to break away from traditional tropes. Clear examples include the "Khemjira" project (combining Thai superstition with horror) and the vampire-themed "Revamp: The Undead Story" by GMMTV.
Thriller & Investigation: The investigative genre will play a significant role, particularly in the GL market with "Cranium" (starring Freen-Becky). Scheduled for early 2026, this is the most anticipated mega-project in the GL thriller category.
Mature & Social Issues: Narratives addressing social issues, mental health, and realistic working life (Slice of Life) will become more prevalent. For instance, "Burnout Syndrome," premiering in late 2025, is expected to carry its momentum well into 2026.
2. Flagship Series to Watch in 2026
Based on lineup announcements and production news, here are the key projects positioned for 2026 (or late 2025 carrying over):
| Title | Studio | Cast | Genre | Status / Hype |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ticket to Heaven | GMMTV | Gemini – Fourth | Romance / Drama | Major flagship project for this hit pairing; fans expect a more mature direction. |
| Cranium | Idol Factory | Freen – Becky | Investigation / GL | High-scale GL investigation series expected to set a new genre standard (Jan 2026). |
| Scarlet Heart Thailand | GMMTV | Win, Tu, Nanon, Tay | Period / Drama | Thai remake with a huge budget and star-studded cast; expected 2025–2026 hit. |
| Girl Rules | GMMTV | Namtan–Film, Milk–Love | Modern GL | Three iconic GL couples in one series; projected highlight of 2026. |
| Cosmetic Playlover S2 | Japan (TV) | Sahashi & Natsume | Rom-Com / Office | Japanese hit series returning with Season 2 (Jan 2026). |
| Fourever You Project P2 | Studio Wabi Sabi | Bas, Earth, Bever | University / Drama | Continuation focusing on junior couples and deeper emotional dynamics (WeTV). |
| Only Friends: Dream On | GMMTV | Ensemble Cast | Drama / 18+ | Follow-up to the viral Only Friends universe; long-requested by fans. |
| Burnout Syndrome | GMMTV | Off, Gun, Dew | Drama / Psychological | Psychological social-issue drama filming late 2025, airing 2026. |
| Your Third | Domundi | Max – Nat | Romantic Drama | Part of Domundi’s 2026 lineup, premiering on iQIYI for global fans. |
3. Consumer Behavior and New Business Models
Fandom Economy 2.0: Fans will transition from being just "viewers" to "co-creators" through funding or voting activities that influence series direction. Official merchandise tied to the story (Merchandise Tie-in) will become more complex and premium.
Global Streaming First: Releasing "Uncut" versions on global platforms like iQIYI, WeTV, or Netflix will become the primary standard. This strategy aims to penetrate markets in China, Latin America, and Europe, with subscription revenue and international licensing fees overtaking domestic TV ad revenue.
4. Challenges to Watch
Content Oversupply: Excessive production may lead to "Viewer Fatigue." Series with weak scripts or subpar production values will be quickly rejected by the market.
Talent Shortage: Rapid growth has led to a shortage of qualified directors, screenwriters, and editing teams—a critical issue the government's Soft Power policy aims to address.
