I've heard some people claim that Thailand is more progressive toward queer people and issues when compared to elsewhere in Southeast Asia because Thailand is the only nation in the region never colonized or dominated by European powers.
I'm not qualified to have an opinion on that subject, but it's interesting to think about!
Your article is super interesting as you lift away some of Thailand's queer mystery. I've read a lot of contradictory reports about Thailand's attitudes towards and treatment of LGBTQ people, and your story helps bring it into focus.
Thank you!