A first for Southeast Asia

Bangkok, Thailand — In a landmark moment for Southeast Asia, nearly 2,000 same-sex and transgender couples tied the knot on Thursday as Thailand’s equal marriage law officially came into effect.

Thailand, now the largest nation in Asia to legalize equal marriage, joins more than 30 countries worldwide that have granted marriage equality since the Netherlands became the first to recognize same-sex unions in 2001.

By mid-afternoon, 1,754 same-sex couples had registered their marriages at over 800 district offices across the nation, according to the Ministry of the Interior.

“A decade-long wait for love”

In Bangkok’s Bangrak district office, 64-year-old Sumalee Sudsaynet and 59-year-old Thanaphon Chokhongsung were among the first to marry. The couple, who met a decade ago and share a passion for Buddhism, proudly displayed their engagement rings to onlookers.

“We are so happy. We’ve been waiting for this day for 10 years,” said Thanaphon, adorned in a white gown.

Sumalee, overcome with emotion, added, “The legalization of same-sex marriage uplifts our dignity. It allows us to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples.”

Mass weddings mark a day of celebration

At Bangkok’s Siam Paragon mall, dozens of couples dressed in both traditional and modern wedding attire participated in a mass wedding ceremony organized by Bangkok Pride and local authorities.

Rows of tables were set up for couples to complete the administrative steps required to collect their marriage certificates. Among the newlyweds was trans man Kevin Pehthai Thanomkhet, 31, and his wife, Maple Nathnicha Klintgaworn, 39.

“So happy, like, oh my god… my heart is beating,” Kevin said. His father, Phornchai, expressed pride and acceptance, stating, “I have always accepted [him]. Whatsoever, it is OK with me.”

A progressive law for a changing society

The newly implemented law uses gender-neutral terminology, removing references to “husband” and “wife,” which paves the way for transgender individuals to marry. The law also grants equal adoption and inheritance rights to all married couples.

“Today, the rainbow flag is proudly flying over Thailand,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared in a celebratory post on X (formerly Twitter).

Despite Thailand’s longstanding reputation for LGBTQ tolerance, the equal marriage bill represents a significant shift in legal recognition. After years of activism often delayed by political instability, the law was passed in a historic parliamentary vote last June and ratified by King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

The journey to equality continues

Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who attended the mass wedding, emphasized Thailand’s progressiveness while indirectly criticizing recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding gender identity.

“Recently, a country’s leader said that there were only two genders, but I think we are more open-minded than that,” Srettha said.

However, challenges remain. While Thailand is celebrated for its tolerance, traditional and conservative values persist. Many LGBTQ individuals continue to face societal barriers and discrimination.

“In the past, LGBTQ people were seen as monstrosities,” said Ploynaplus Chirasukon, who married her partner of 17 years, Kwanporn Kongpetch. Advocating for greater gender identity recognition, Ploynaplus stated, “People who don’t identify with their biological sex are like homeless people. The ability to change our titles would allow for true equality.”

“Love is love”

For many, Thursday marked not only a personal milestone but also a victory for love and equality. Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree, 49, and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool, 38, were moved to tears as they received their pink-bordered marriage certificate in Bangkok.

“We fought for this for decades,” said Arm. “Today is a remarkable day, celebrating that love is love.”

As the rainbow flag flies proudly over Thailand, the nation sets an example for inclusivity, offering hope to millions across the region and the world.