LGBTQ+ marriage in Thailand


Whilst Thai society is generally accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, same-sex unions haven’t been legalised and many are still waiting for the green light.

So, many LGBTQ+ couples perform ceremonial marriages in the Kingdom to bind and showcase their love for one another, for instance these two love birds, Mr. Smile and Mr. Bas who were wedded on 3rd April 2021.

In addition to legal hoops, members of the LGBTQ+ population also have to face loved ones in opposition of their choices, like Mr. Smile and his grandfather.

More about LGBTQ+ inclusion in Thailand:


Thai families supports LGBTQ+ marriage


The grooms held a small wedding ceremony at their home and their close friends and family members attended their special day.

One special guest included Mr. Smile’s grandfather, whose appearance brought tears of joy to the groom’s eyes, reported Kapook

Thai Grandpa Attends Grandson’s Same-Sex Wedding Despite Initial Resistence Due To “Tradition”Image credit: สุริยา เกิดแสง (Left), สุริยา เกิดแสง (Right)

Thai Grandpa Attends Grandson’s Same-Sex Wedding Despite Initial Resistence Due To “Tradition”Image credit: สุริยา เกิดแสง (Left), สุริยา เกิดแสง (Right)

Mr. Smile’s grandfather raised him since he was a child, but their relationship became rocky as his grandfather didn’t accept his sexual orientation due to generational differences – the grandparent apparently criticised the groom a lot.

So, seeing his grandfather at his wedding as well as receiving his blessing made the day that much more special for Mr. Smile.


LGBTQ+ wedding received 1.5K likes


Thai Grandpa Attends Grandson’s Same-Sex Wedding Despite Initial Resistence Due To “Tradition”Image credit: สุริยา เกิดแสง (Left), สุริยา เกิดแสง (Right)

As per Thai tradition, the grooms were presented with dowry gifts like an iPhone, golden amulets and cash. 

Even those who weren’t physically in attendance continued to celebrate the union: their love story received 1.5K likes on Facebook as posted by Suriya Koedsang aka ‘Mr. Smile’ himself.

Screenshot: สุริยา เกิดแสง 

Translation: Even though we’re not a hetereosexual couple, I’ve never asked anyone to accept me, I still don’t appreciate the fact that people come and judge me. You can have an opinion but not harass and bully others. No matter what I am, I’m still human.

Netizens also show their support. 

Thai Grandpa Attends Grandson’s Same-Sex Wedding Despite Initial Resistence Due To “Tradition”
Screenshot: สุริยา เกิดแสง 

Translation: Hope your love is eternal. Don’t care about others.

Thai Grandpa Attends Grandson’s Same-Sex Wedding Despite Initial Resistence Due To “Tradition”
Screenshot: สุริยา เกิดแสง 


Equality and inclusiveness for all


The world is becoming a lot more inclusive than before, and we solve a lot of social problems by changing ourselves for the better. It’s always important to make an effort to understand where each person is coming from. 

Wholesome LGBTQ+ stories:


Cover images adapted from: สุริยา เกิดแสง (Left), สุริยา เกิดแสง (Right)

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