Yaoi (やおい), also known as Boys’ Love (BL), is a Japanese genre of fiction that focuses on romantic and emotional relationships between male characters. Originating from fan-created manga in the 1970s, it has since evolved into a mainstream category across manga, anime, novels, and games. The stories range from lighthearted romances to dramatic narratives, often exploring themes of love, identity, and personal connection.
Today, Yaoi has a global following, with dedicated magazines, conventions, and online communities celebrating the genre. Popular titles like Given, Junjou Romantica, and Sekaiichi Hatsukoi helped introduce Yaoi to international audiences, making it one of the most influential and recognized genres in modern Japanese pop culture.
