At BL Watcher, I'm a huge champion of Taiwanese BL dramas. As the only country in East Asia that has legalized same-sex marriage, Taiwan is the friendliest and most progressive place for gay romances to thrive. Any Taiwanese BL series already feels happier by default, simply because I know the couples can enjoy a stable long-term future together with a legitimate status. The cultural significance of Taiwanese BL dramas means so much to me, and I'm delighted that this genre is on the rise in the country.
In the beginning, the quality of early Taiwanese BL dramas was somewhat inconsistent. However, I have noticed a promising improvement over the years, and I hold a lot of hope for new series coming out in the future. Among all the Taiwanese BL series, the HIStory franchise is probably the most famous one. With many installments available, they are a great place to start if you want to watch BL dramas from Taiwan.
You'll enjoy Taiwanese BL dramas if you like:
- Great physical intimacy between the leads
- Steamy and passionate romances
- Dramatic storylines fuelled by sexual tension
I have compiled a list of Taiwanese BL series and dramas from Taiwan made over the years! Read the reviews of each drama for in-depth information about the plot, the cast, and the episodes.
List of BL Dramas in Taiwan
2025 BL
2024 BL
- Anti Reset
- Bad to Bed
- Eternal Butler
- First Note of Love
- Let's Talk About Chu
- See Your Love
- The Nipple Talk
- Unknown
2023 BL
2022 BL
- 49 Days With a Merman
- About Youth
- DNA Says I Love You
- HIStory 5: Love in the Future
- My Tooth Your Love
- Plus & Minus
2021 BL
- Be Loved in House
- Fighting Mr. 2nd
- HIStory 4: Close to You
- Innocent
- No. 1 For You
- Papa & Daddy
- See You After Quarantine
2020 BL
2019 BL
2018 BL
2017 BL
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2025
Black and White Is Real (2025)
Black and White Is Real is a Taiwanese BL series that tells two stories. The first is about a pair of high school friends with secret feelings for each other. They keep hesitating instead of being honest, even when one of them is about to leave the country to study abroad. The second story is about two celebrities who must work together for a commercial. Their teams decide the best way to build chemistry is to have them live together in close quarters.
Featuring the same actors from Fight for You, they bring even stronger chemistry than before. Their romantic scenes are the highlights of this series. There are even a few spicy moments! However, the rest of the story is unenjoyable. Some parts of it are confusing, while other scenes are too cliched. Even the romance feels more like obvious fanservice instead of a natural relationship. It's also a vertically filmed drama, making everything feel cheaper.
Exclusive Love (2025)
Exclusive Love is a Taiwanese BL series about the heir to a funeral home. The main character dreams of pursuing a music career instead of inheriting the family business. His older brother leaves him no choice, so he's stuck in a training program that will last for months. Enter his mentor, a funeral director who barely shows emotion. He coaches the protagonist under strict rules. As the two men work and live together, their relationship becomes intimate.
There are many hot guys in Exclusive Love! The cast is easy on the eyes, and their attractiveness carries the series for a while. Plus, the beautiful cinematography and polished production make everything look stunning. However, the story becomes so ridiculously dumb. I roll my eyes at the tired melodrama and illogical plot points. The romances take too long to develop. My enthusiasm was gone by the time we saw the steamy moments.
Fight for You (2025)
Fight for You is a Taiwanese BL series about a police detective on an undercover mission. The main character is assigned to investigate a shady company with suspected ties to criminal activity. To get closer to the truth, he befriends the new employee and uses him as an entry point to the business. The protagonist even moves in with his target, posing as just a curious roommate. In reality, he's quietly gathering evidence for the investigation.
The best part of Fight for You is the incredibly cute romance. This couple shares many sweet moments together. Both main characters are very lovable, and the story gives them enough depth to make you care about them. While the performances are shaky at times, the leads are comfortable with kissing and physical intimacy. However, the plot is too light. The series focuses more on fluffy moments than on developing a deep storyline.
Impression of Youth (2025)
Impression of Youth is a Taiwanese BL series about an artist who visits a rural town for the summer. The main character takes a job as a substitute teacher and moves into a homestay run by two brothers. One of them is a high school student who loves to paint. He looks up to the protagonist and wants to learn everything from him. Every lesson brings them closer together. Despite the age gap, their relationship eventually turns romantic.
Set in a sun-drenched coastal town, Impression of Youth comes with gorgeous visuals. It nails the midsummer atmosphere, making some scenes feel memorable. Unfortunately, the plot is drowning in cliches. I root against the main couple because of their icky teacher-student dynamic. Plus, they have no chemistry in their scenes together. While I like the secondary pair, they don't get enough focus to redeem the series.
The Promise of the Soul (2025)
The Promise of the Soul is a Taiwanese BL series about a widower in his late 60s. During an intense argument, he has a tragic accident. When the main character regains consciousness, he finds himself trapped inside his grandson's body. He's shocked about waking up with a different identity. Only his neighbour knows the truth, and he becomes the one person helping him adjust to his new life as a twentysomething.
I'm obsessed with the unique premise in The Promise of the Soul. Where can you find another BL drama with a 69-year-old grandpa as the lead!? He's an iconic character with many funny moments. He also offers a mature perspective that you wouldn't find in younger protagonists. Despite the age gap, I like the couple's scenes together. They have a strong emotional bond. However, a few storylines bother me, making the series hard to recommend.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2024
Anti Reset (2024)
Anti Reset is a Taiwanese BL series about the romance between a human and an android. Due to a recent injury, the main character hires a robotic caregiver to attend to his daily needs at home. This prototype looks humanlike and thinks with sophisticated artificial intelligence. Initially, the protagonist isn't used to the advanced technology. Over time, he becomes fond of his new companion and develops a surprisingly intimate bond.
I appreciate Anti Reset for its innovative premise. An AI love interest is a quirky idea with lots of novelty. Unfortunately, the series feels watered-down and doesn't approach the storylines meaningfully. It turns a complex concept into a generic romance. Also, there are many cheesy moments with generic BL tropes. With that said, the actors look cute together and share decent chemistry. It's an okay drama if I keep expectations low.
Bad to Bed (2024)
Bad to Bed is a Taiwanese BL series about a man whose life spirals out of control due to severe insomnia. The main character is a famous gay influencer. After hooking up with a guy at a bar, they begin dating and form a strong bond. Despite their happiness together, the protagonist struggles with sleepless nights. As his dreams blur with reality, he has strange encounters with random people. These bizarre experiences strain his relationship.
From the longwinded conversations to the random dream sequences, Bad to Bed can be painfully dull. The protagonist's hallucinations add little to the plot, and most episodes feel either inconsequential or overly melodramatic. Ironically, a story about insomnia manages to put me to sleep. While the romance is sweet, it can't compensate for the other shortcomings. Plus, the excessive crying scenes expose the cast's weaknesses as actors.
Eternal Butler (2024)
Eternal Butler is a Taiwanese BL series about a robot housekeeper. The main character is a rebellious university student born into a wealthy family. He clashes with his controlling father, who recently hired a high-tech robot to monitor his son's behaviour. At first, the protagonist is annoyed. He hates how his new companion follows him everywhere and enforces strict rules. Over time, he grows fond of the robot and cherishes their relationship.
From the same studio that brought us Anti Reset, we get another robot love story with Eternal Butler. And guess what? The story is more entertaining this time! Sadly, it takes the most amateur approach to artificial intelligence instead of diving into the meaty sci-fi stuff. Don't expect much depth. Instead, I enjoyed the cute BL fluff with hot guys in butler uniforms and spicy scenes. While the acting isn't the best, the couple shares decent chemistry.
First Note of Love (2024)
First Note of Love is a Taiwanese BL series about the romance between a singer and a songwriter. The main character is a famous band member who left the spotlight after his brother's death. He has struggled with performance anxiety. Years later, his manager pushes him to stage a comeback. They bring in a young songwriting prodigy to help with his return. Despite their different backgrounds and personalities, the two form a close bond.
My favourite part about First Note of Love is the adorable lead actor. The shy and sensitive protagonist is one my favourite archetypes in fiction. Between his nervous glances and his sweet smiles, the series has created a lovable main character that I want to champion. Unfortunately, the story moves so slowly and has too much filler. The boring moments often overshadow the meaningful messages in the couple's journey.
Let's Talk About Chu (2024)
Let's Talk About Chu is a Taiwanese series about three siblings and their relationship drama. The main character is the youngest child in her family. She clashes with her traditional parents, who condemn her independent streak and sex positivity. Her married sister faces pressure to have kids, while her gay brother seems secretive about his life. The protagonist begins a casual fling with her friend. She doesn't want them to develop serious feelings.
I had a lot of fun with Let's Talk About Chu. I loved how it handles complex storylines about relationships and family dynamics. The characters don't always act in their best interests, but their dysfunctional drama provides interesting storylines. I admire that the series doesn't shy away from sex. Also, the entire cast gels well together and gives great performances. While the gay romance isn't the main focus, the couple still goes on a satisfying journey.
See Your Love (2024)
See Your Love is a Taiwanese BL series about a wealthy business heir and his caregiver. The main character comes from a privileged family and must help manage his father's company. However, he lacks ambition and constantly finds excuses to avoid responsibility. After an injury, the protagonist finds himself in a wheelchair and needs support with his daily needs. He hires a new personal assistant, who happens to be deaf.
The story in See Your Love feels extra meaningful because of the protagonist's hearing loss. I adore all the emotional scenes with positive messages. At the same time, I enjoy the lighthearted humour and sweet relationship moments. The actors have so much charisma, bringing out the colourful personalities from their characters. Plus, the romance is super-duper cute! I'm grinning episode after episode, the surest sign of an enjoyable BL drama.
The Nipple Talk (2024)
The Nipple Talk is a Taiwanese series about a group of friends and their spicy love lives. The main character is confident in her sexuality. With no plans to settle down, this single lady only wants to hook up with hot men. Her lesbian friend also enjoys casual flings, not taking any relationship seriously. In contrast, their gay bestie is committed to his long-term boyfriend and wants to get married. However, his romance has been cooling off recently.
With many racy sex scenes, The Nipple Talk is proud to be a progressive drama that never shies away from physical intimacy. The characters hook up with many attractive men and women. I also appreciate its strong focus on LGBTQ+ themes. However, the shallow storylines don't always hold my attention. Most of the romances, including the gay couple, are nothing special. They don't develop deeply enough to make a lasting impression.
Unknown (2024)
Unknown is a Taiwanese BL series about two orphans who grow up together. The main character comes from an abusive home. After losing his mother, he must look after his younger sister and becomes a teen delinquent working under a gang leader. One night, the protagonist encounters another homeless child. Out of kindness, he invites the boy to live with him. Over the years, their bond becomes so close that they consider each other brothers.
Early on, Unknown tugs at your heartstrings. The opening episode is so poignant that it may even make you cry. Every emotion feels more powerful with the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. You'll enjoy the complex relationship between the leads, who constantly blur the line between platonic love and romantic desire. The actors also have great chemistry. While the series becomes less interesting midway, it regains momentum in the final episodes.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2023
Kiseki: Dear to Me (2023)
Kiseki: Dear to Me is a Taiwanese crime BL series about a high school student and a gangster. The main character encounters an injured man who threatens him for medical assistance. Against his will, the protagonist takes the stranger home for rest and treatment. They begin living together for an extended time, forming a surprisingly close connection. However, getting involved with a criminal comes with dangerous consequences.
I enjoy the hunky cast in Kiseki: Dear to Me. Both couples have lots of sizzling chemistry in their romantic scenes. Plus, there are many fun cameo appearances by familiar BL stars. However, I struggle to immerse myself in the story, which becomes so increasingly ridiculous. From the over-the-top melodrama to the total nonsense, the story feels too unbelievable. The series also has toxic relationship tropes and an icky teacher-student romance.
Stay by My Side (2023)
Stay by My Side is a Taiwanese BL series about two university roommates who don't get along. The main character used to live alone until a new student moves into his dorm room. They antagonize each other due to a personality clash. Recently, the protagonist unlocks an ability to communicate with ghosts. These restless spirits torment him and disrupt everyday life. The only way to ward off the demons is by remaining close to his nemesis.
The couple in Stay by My Side goes on an entertaining journey from enemies to lovers. The story's supernatural twist adds unique scenarios and nuanced relationship dynamics to keep the romance compelling. This visually dazzling series delivers many BL-friendly moments, which will delight fans of the genre. However, a few iffy plots cause minor annoyances. The inexperienced actors also take a while to settle into their roles.
VIP Only (2023)
VIP Only is a Taiwanese BL series about a restauranteur and a loyal customer. The main character is an author working on his next novel. He uses his favourite beef noodle shop as a workspace. After multiple return visits, he begins a friendly relationship with the owner. As they grow closer, the protagonist finds inspiration for his book. Their soothing romance helps him overcome his writer's block and past heartbreak.
Unfortunately, VIP Only is pretty boring. This formulaic BL series has a slow, predictable plot, while the cheesy romance relies on overused cliches. It tries to be culinary therapy by emphasizing profound life philosophies. I sometimes enjoy the sentimental messages, like the equivalent of a self-help book. Yet, a bunch of inspirational quotes don't translate into entertainment. Not even the handsome lead can add excitement to this bland love story.
You Are Mine (2023)
You Are Mine is a Taiwanese office BL series about a business executive and his assistant. The main character has started a new job as a secretary. His boss is notoriously demanding and doesn't get along with the staff. Despite making mistakes initially, the protagonist learns to accommodate his strict employer. As their workplace relationship develops, they struggle to admit their fondness for each other.
The early episodes of You Are Mine charmed me. I enjoy the goofy plots with lighthearted humour, and it's fun to see the leads grow fond of each other. However, the series becomes increasingly cringy in the second half. The sleazy boss behaves problematically toward his subordinate. He crosses boundaries with his aggressive advances. Instead of a sweet romance, the relationship feels so toxic. Their power dynamics make me very uncomfortable.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2022
49 Days With a Merman (2022)
49 Days With a Merman is a Taiwanese fantasy drama. An ordinary high school student leads an uneventful life until he suddenly meets an eccentric merman. Unable to return to the sea, the merman must reside in the human world for the time being. He lives in the bathroom belonging to his new companion, as the two characters form a brotherly bond.
Regrettably, 49 Days With a Merman is not a BL series. Even though several suggestive scenes lean towards fanservice, the characters never share romantic interactions. Nonetheless, the upbeat story, charming actors, and boisterous humour bring the zany narrative to life. This lighthearted dramedy is enjoyable from a non-BL perspective.
About Youth (2022)
About Youth is a Taiwanese BL series about a teenage romance between two high school seniors. The main characters first meet on a rainy evening after experiencing emotional hardships. They reunite a year later, but only one of them remembers what happened that night. As the leads get acquainted, their newfound friendship develops into a mutual attraction.
I understand why About Youth appeals to BL fans. The cute actors, fun scenarios, glossy visuals, and catchy soundtrack create an attractive teen love story. However, I'm not impressed with the clunky writing, corny cliches, or clumsy ending. This glitzy series shows more style over substance, lacking a clever plot to complement its sweet campus romance.
DNA Says I Love You (2022)
DNA Says I Love You is a unique Taiwanese BL series with a groundbreaking concept. However, the story begins ordinarily as a boy-meets-boy romance. The main character befriends a mysterious stranger, who seems sweet, shares similar interests, and gets along with him. As their relationship develops, his new acquaintance struggles to maintain a complex secret.
There's a fascinating story embedded in DNA Says I Love You, even though it may not seem obvious initially. This BL drama takes its time to introduce the gentle protagonists, who develop a cute romantic bond. As the plot unfolds, many thoughtful messages and powerful emotions emerge. At its peak, the series delivers complex and compelling drama that resonates poignantly.
HIStory 5: Love in the Future (2022)
HIStory 5: Love in the Future is a Taiwanese BL series about a time traveller and his romance. One night, the protagonist is magically transported years into the future. While settling into his new life, he befriends a mysterious stranger who offers him a job and a residence. The two roommates bond as they learn about each other's pasts. Their relationship heats up once they work in the same office together.
The first half of HIStory 5: Love in the Future is incoherent nonsense. The convoluted plots, amateurish acting, and obnoxious characters constantly make me cringe. However, the series improves after the romances develop. While both couples suffer from annoying drama, their flirting and physical intimacy create affectionate relationship moments. Also, the terrible story becomes campy enough that it's ironically enjoyable.
My Tooth Your Love (2022)
My Tooth Your Love is a Taiwanese BL series about a dentist, his patient, and their romance. The main character suffers from a toothache, but he'd rather endure the pain than seek help. When the protagonist finally visits the clinic, he causes trouble and clashes with his dentist. Despite the rocky first impression, they overcome their differences and befriend each other. As their friendship develops, they must figure out their budding feelings.
Although My Tooth Your Love contains many cliches, it depicts the familiar BL tropes with sweetness and charm. This series combines an attractive cast, romantic banter, and vibrant chemistry to create an engaging story. Sometimes, it's hard to enjoy the cheesy plot, which forces contrived conflicts to separate the couple. Nonetheless, I can ignore the various hiccups in the narrative and focus on these hot guys flirting cutely.
Plus & Minus (2022)
Plus & Minus is a Taiwanese BL series about the romance between two childhood friends. The main characters have been best friends for over twenty years. Now, they work as colleagues in the same law firm. Despite their close brotherly bond, this friendship never escalated affectionately until now.
As somebody who favours BL romances between childhood friends, I am obsessed with Plus & Minus. This couple delivers an enthusiastic rapport, many adorable relationship moments, and powerful displays of passion. They make me blush, giggle, and feel emotionally invested in their riveting dynamic. Despite some clunky writing, the delightful love story resonates with me so much.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2021
Be Loved in House (2021)
Be Loved in House is a Taiwanese BL series about the office romance between a boss and his employee. When the new boss arrives at the company, he immediately clashes with a headstrong, hot-blooded employee over a controversial workplace policy. Although their relationship starts off combatively, the two of them develop a bond as they work and live together.
A riveting dynamic fuels the main romance in Be Loved in House, turning a pair of enemies into lovers with their fun, vibrant chemistry. Unfortunately, the plot loses momentum towards the end and slogs during those last few episodes. Nonetheless, Be Loved in House is still a solid BL drama defined by its overall strengths more than its weaknesses.
Fighting Mr. 2nd (2021)
Fighting Mr. 2nd is the sequel of the Taiwanese BL drama, No. 1 For You, continuing a few years after where the first season ended. All the characters are now working, and the BL romance has transitioned to a tech office environment. However, the main couple is not on the best of terms, meeting again after a few years apart. Their unresolved feelings for each other intensify, as they now mix romance with workplace politics.
Fans of the first series will want to continue the characters' romantic journey in Fighting Mr. 2nd. Packed with lots of affectionate exchanges, this BL sequel shares many of the same strengths and weaknesses as its predecessor. The story is still flimsy and illogical, but it's saved by the sizzling chemistry between the lead actors.
HIStory 4 : Close to You (2021)
HIStory 4: Close to You is a Taiwanese BL drama about three friends who live together and work at the same company. One of the characters pretends to be interested in BL to impress a new employee, but what started out as a charade leads to the development of unexpected romantic feelings. Meanwhile, another character is confronted by an obsessive stalker, as the two of them go through a twisted and turbulent dynamic.
This is easily the worst instalment in the HIStory franchise that romanticizes rape, celebrates toxic relationships, and indulges in offensive tropes. Maybe HIStory 4: Close to You becomes more watchable if you only focus on the lighthearted couple, even if their romance is ridiculous and cliché. However, the other pairing is extremely problematic with an evil psychotic character disguising as a viable love interest. Their storyline unfolds like a dark, disturbing horror that is very uncomfortable to watch.
Innocent (2021)
Innocent is a Taiwanese BL series about a man with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). His two distinctive personalities mask a repressed trauma from the past. When he begins a romance with an ordinary man, they go through an emotional journey of anguish and healing.
At times, Innocent evokes poignant emotions and captivates your attention with passionate relationship scenes. However, the unique premise is diminished by some questionable storytelling choices. You may be put off by the disjointed narrative initially, but the intriguing plot and romance pick up steam after the first episode.
No. 1 For You (2021)
No. 1 For You is a Taiwanese BL drama about two ambitious university students. They constantly challenge each other in sports and school. As these rivals compete for the #1 title on campus, they develop a passionate relationship along the way.
The romance in No. 1 For You takes a while to get going and almost spends too long on useless plots. Once this series hits its stride, the scenes are fun, lighthearted, and engaging to watch. There are plenty of sweet and sizzling BL moments between the main couple.
Papa & Daddy (2021)
Papa and Daddy is a slice-of-life Taiwanese BL drama about a gay couple raising their son together. They lead a happy, ordinary life despite facing some gossip from other parents and a bit of meddling from relatives. Each episode focuses on their casual day-to-day events, as the couple navigates between relationship drama and family matters.
With its strong LGBT identity, Papa and Daddy is a sweet and lighthearted series. It focuses heavily on family and features a positive portrayal of gay parenting. There's a good mix of cute romance, dynamic characters, and many feel-good family moments.
See You After Quarantine (2021)
See You After Quarantine? is a Taiwanese BL drama that takes place during the COVID pandemic. The story is told through a series of video calls, in which the characters meet, converse, and flirt. Over time, romantic feelings develop between the two leads, even though they have never met physically in person.
Despite its unique format, See You After Quarantine is a pretty straightforward love story that feels short, simple, and sweet. The easy and effortless writing contributes to the warm, relaxing vibe of the series. However, I'm not particularly inspired or convinced by the long-distance romance, which requires some suspension of disbelief.
Old Taiwanese BL Dramas
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2020
Because of You (2020)
Because of You is a Taiwanese BL drama about the three wealthy sons of a powerful tycoon, each competing for a major stake in their father’s business empire. All three brothers experience their own romantic storylines during the course of this ten-episode series.
At times, I see quick glimpses of an interesting plot or a sweet romantic moment in Because of You. Unfortunately, this drama is too muddled with toxic relationships, shallow character development, and scattered storylines that never quite come together.
Craving You (2020)
Craving You is a Taiwanese BL drama about the love story of a bakery owner and a famous musician, or at least it started out that way. Although their relationship seemed cute and lighthearted at the beginning, it becomes more complicated once an old high school flame is introduced.
Over the course of the series, Craving You gradually feels more serious and dramatic, straying away from its original premise. As the sweet romance takes a sour turn in the second half, prepare for a volatile journey filled with tension, conflict, and angst.
Our Memory (2020)
Our Memory is a short Taiwanese BL drama that follows an ordinary gay couple from the moment they get together. Each episode describes a different stage of their romance. Together, they must overcome various struggles like maintaining a long-distance relationship or coping with parental disapproval.
Limited by its short length, Our Memory is a fairly average series filled with familiar BL tropes. The romance is sweet and endearing, even if it stays on a predictable trajectory all the way. Although it's not a bad effort, this story is ultimately too short to make a lasting impact.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2019
HIStory 3: Make Our Days Count (2019)
HIStory 3: Make Our Days Count is about the turbulent romance between a high school student and his bully. Although the two characters begin the series with lots of hostility, their relationship improves as they understand each other more. This BL drama also features a saucy romance with a sizable age difference, as one of the teens develops a crush on an older man.
Admittedly, HIStory 3: Make Our Days Count comes with a lot of red flags, which include poor writing, unlikable characters, and unhealthy relationship dynamics. Nonetheless, there are some compelling moments in this series, capable of stirring up intense emotions with its nonstop drama.
HIStory 3: Trapped (2019)
HIStory 3: Trapped is a Taiwanese BL series about a police officer and a powerful triad leader. The main character is obsessed with arresting this criminal, though his motives are tied to a cold case from his past. The two men play a constant game of cat and mouse. Eventually, their mutual suspicion turns into an unexpected romance. The protagonist is conflicted between his growing feelings and his sense of justice.
I never thought I'd see the day when there would be a BL drama about the mafia, but HIStory 3: Trapped has lived up to its name and certainly made history. This Taiwanese BL drama is about the unlikely romance between a police detective and a mafia boss. I like it when BL dramas get ambitious and try to do something different from the norm. While HIStory 3: Trapped doesn't get everything right in its execution, I think this series is an encouraging sign of the creative possibilities available in this genre.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2018
HIStory 2: Crossing the Line (2018)
Out of all the BL dramas in the HIStory franchise, HIStory 2: Crossing the Line is probably my personal favourite. This is an energetic and upbeat Taiwanese BL drama involving a high school volleyball team. When a rebellious student joins the team, he forms a passionate relationship with the manager despite clashing in personalities.
HIStory 2: Crossing the Line is fun, fast-paced, and full of cute BL scenes. You can power through this BL series and remain entertained from start to finish. The sports setting, the energetic characters, and the cute romance all contribute to a really special BL experience.
HIStory 2: Right or Wrong (2018)
HIStory 2: Right or Wrong is a Taiwanese BL drama that explores an unconventional university romance. The main character is a college student who falls in love with his professor. As if their relationship isn't complicated enough, the professor is also a single father with a young child.
Recommending HIStory 2: Right or Wrong is complicated because the tricky romance may not appeal to everyone. The couple must overcome a problematic teacher-student dynamic, significant age difference, and drastically different aspirations. Nonetheless, this HIStory installment is still a decent BL series with lots of charm and cheeriness.
Mermaid Sauna (2018)
Mermaid Sauna is a Taiwanese comedy about three coworkers who have swapped their bodies magically. The story features the boss of a gay bathhouse and his two young employees, all trapped inside each other's bodies. Unable to switch back, the characters must assume their new identities and adjust to bizarrely different perspectives towards life.
Although I came for the BL, I stayed for the wacky genderswap comedy in Mermaid Sauna. The silly story is elevated thanks to the enthusiastic performances from the lively cast. However, the plot is too light and the romances are too insubstantial, limiting the potential of this occasionally enjoyable drama.
Taiwanese BL Dramas in 2017
HIStory: My Hero (2017)
HIStory: My Hero is a Taiwanese BL drama with a supernatural twist. The protagonist is a female ghost who possesses her male classmate to spend more time with her grieving boyfriend. A unique love triangle forms as the romantic connection strengthens between the two men, but the boyfriend doesn’t know he's interacting with his ex-girlfriend in another body.
The first installment in the HIStory franchise gets points for creativity, exploring an unusual romance that touches upon themes of identity and sexuality. Unfortunately, it struggles to capitalize on an interesting premise and rushes through the narrative in an hour's time. Overall, HIStory: My Hero is an okay BL series that falls short of greatness.
HIStory: Obsessed (2017)
HIStory: Obsessed is a Taiwanese BL drama where the main character has a second chance to change his destiny. He uses this opportunity to avoid falling in love with his university boyfriend, who ends up breaking his heart in the future. However, the obsessive boyfriend won't give up on pursuing the protagonist. Being rejected only makes him more aggressive in his advances.
A polarizing series, HIStory: Obsessed is an extreme story with volatile emotions, violent threats, and vile consequences. This provocative BL drama walks a dangerous line between depicting passionate love and psychotic obsession. The intensity of the story leaves me uncomfortable, and some of the depraved actions are simply too despicable to overlook.
HIStory: Stay Away From Me (2017)
HIStory: Stay Away From Me is a Taiwanese BL drama about two stepbrothers who become roommates. The main character is shocked to discover his new stepbrother is a famous celebrity, who will be moving in and living together with him. Although their personalities clash at first, the two of them eventually find common ground and discover a deeper connection.
Some BL series make a big impression, while others like HIStory: Stay Away From Me fall quietly into the middle of the pack. This HIStory installment is a simple and straightforward story that doesn't deviate much from expectations. It's a perfectly serviceable stepbrother romance, even if there's a lack of spark and excitement.
Red Balloon (2017)
Red Balloon is a Taiwanese BL drama featuring a poignantly told high school love story. After his emotional divorce, the main character reminisces about his first crush from years ago. Back in his teenage days, he became mesmerized by a charming student, taking him on a whimsical journey that sadly ends with heartbreak.
There's a lingering melancholy in Red Balloon, as the viewer is guided through the wistful memories of a failed teenage romance. The sensitive storytelling is enhanced by an incredible soundtrack, which amplifies the emotions powerfully and beautifully. Despite a few minor shortcomings, Red Balloon is a solid BL series that will tug at your heartstrings.