Thai actor and singer Korapat Nanon Kirdpan delivered an energetic performance at Cheonggye Plaza during the opening day of the Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025 on Saturday, drawing one of the day's largest crowds despite steady rainfall throughout the event. The 24-year-old star, who has become one of Thailand's most recognized young talents, expressed surprise at the overwhelming turnout for his first live performance in South Korea.
"I didn't expect so many people to come, especially with the rain," Nanon said in an interview with The Korea Herald just minutes after stepping off stage, his voice still energized from the performance. "It's my first time performing in Korea, and I really felt the warmth from the audience." Despite the challenging weather conditions, dedicated fans had been waiting in the plaza area since early morning, many standing under umbrellas or wearing ponchos to catch a glimpse of their favorite star.
Nanon has gained international recognition primarily through his roles in youth and romantic dramas that have found growing success beyond Thailand's borders. His breakthrough performance came in the 2021 series "Bad Buddy," a coming-of-age romance that tells the story of two university rivals who eventually fall in love with each other. This role significantly expanded his international fanbase, particularly in South Korea, where the series has gained considerable popularity.
When asked about the global appeal of Thai dramas, Nanon attributed their success to the authentic warmth and sincerity that characterizes Thai storytelling. "I think Thai series carry a certain warmth and sincerity that reflects how we are as people," he explained. "We tend to smile easily, be open, and care for each other. I think that shows in the storytelling." He emphasized that this natural openness and caring nature of Thai people translates effectively into their dramatic productions.
The actor also highlighted the unique production environment that contributes to the authenticity of Thai dramas. "Many actors and staff become close on set, like a small family," Nanon noted. "That energy comes through on screen, especially in emotional or romantic scenes. It feels more natural." This tight-knit atmosphere among cast and crew members creates a genuine chemistry that audiences can feel when watching the finished product.
"Bad Buddy" belongs to the boys love (BL) genre, which has played a crucial role in expanding the global reach of Thai entertainment content. In South Korea specifically, the series found particular success through Heavenly, a specialized streaming platform that focuses on LGBTQ-themed content. Since its launch in Korea in 2022, Heavenly has successfully introduced a new wave of Thai dramas to younger Korean viewers, with Nanon's performance in "Bad Buddy" ranking among the platform's most-streamed titles.
Reflecting on the deeper meaning behind BL stories, Nanon emphasized that these narratives offer more than just romantic entertainment. "These stories aren't just about love," he said. "They're about connection and growth. That's something people relate to." This universal appeal of personal growth and human connection helps explain why Thai BL dramas have resonated with audiences across different cultures and countries.
While Saturday's festival performance marked Nanon's first live show in South Korea, he has visited the country several times previously. The positive reception and enthusiastic fan response have left him open to future opportunities in the Korean market. "I've really enjoyed being here," he concluded. "If something comes up in the future, I'd be happy to return." His successful debut performance at the Thai festival suggests strong potential for continued cultural exchange between Thailand and South Korea in the entertainment sector.
