Not just K-pop: 9 breakout Thai pop and TV stars of 2023, from F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers’ Tu, Dew and Prim, to KinnPorsche’s Jeff Satur and My School President’s Fourth and Gemini

Dec 6 , 2023

Thai stars don’t just work in K-pop: Tontawan Tantivejakul (Tu), Jeff Satur and Jirawat Sutivanisak (Dew) have also become popular through homegrown shows such as F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers. Photos: @tontawan, @jeffsatur, @dew_jsu/Instagram

Many Thai idols work in K-pop – Lisa of Blackpink, Got7’s BamBam, 2PM’s Nichkhun, WayV’s Ten and (G)I-dle’s Minnie – but Thai stars are making their own mark in boys’ love dramas and more projects

Jeff Satur and Jirawat Sutivanisak became global sensations, while Tontawan Tantivejakul reps for Dior, and Chanikarn Tangkabodee for Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Valentino and Givenchy

Watch out, South Korea – Thai stars are on the rise and becoming a force to behold in the global entertainment space.

While the K-pop industry still has some of the most popular Thai stars, including Lisa of Blackpink, Got7’s BamBam, 2PM’s Nichkhun, WayV’s Ten and (G)I-dle’s Minnie, Thai stars are increasingly gaining prominence on the international stage with home-grown TV dramas known as lakorns. Meanwhile, their international appeal and presence on fashion red carpets have helped them reach a wider audience.

Here are nine Thai stars that have captured the world’s attention in 2023.

1. Tontawan Tantivejakul (Tu)

Tontawan Tantivejakul, who also goes by Tu, had a major breakthrough year after securing the lead role as Gorya in F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers, the Thai adaptation of Japanese manga series Hana Yori Dango.

In 2023, she was named the brand ambassador for Dior, joining the likes of Thai stars Nattawin Wattanagitiphat (Apo) and Phakphum Romsaithong (Mile) of KinnPorsche: The Series. She was also featured in K-pop group G(I)-dle’s music video for “I Do: A Love Story in Bangkok” and Thai drama 10 Year Ticket. With her captivating onscreen presence, she is all set for her big screen debut with The Chinese Family, scheduled for release in 2024.

2. Jirawat Sutivanisak (Dew)

Jirawat Sutivanisak, also known as Dew, scored the second lead role in F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers, and captivated viewers with his soft portrayal of Ren. Dew, who started his career in high school as a model, leans towards classic and luxe styles when it comes to fashion.

This year, he made an appearance at several prestigious events, including Milan Fashion Week spring/summer 2024. He also acted in the drama series Home School, and G(I)-dle’s music video “I Do: A Love Story in Bangkok” alongside Tu.

3. Chanikarn Tangkabodee (Prim)

Prim also stars in F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers and has worked in the industry since she was 10. Photo: @primiily/Instagram

Chanikarn Tangkabodee, or Prim, has worked in the Thai industry since she was 10. This year, at age 19, she’s emerged as one of 2023’s biggest breakthrough stars. From playing Kaning in F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers to securing a lead role in Enigma opposite Metawin Opas-iamkajorn, Prim’s star is definitely on the rise. She has also forged relationships with brands such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Valentino and Gucci.