Sexual Space in the Mor Lam Landscape: The “Laen Mai” Practices of Isaan Gay Men
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Abstract
This research investigates the practice of “Laen Mai” (cruising for sexual partners) among gay men in the Northeastern (Isaan) region of Thailand, within Mor Lam events. The objectives of this study are: 1) to examine the relationship between physical space and sexual space of gay men in Mor Lam events, and 2) explore the sexual partner-seeking behaviors of gay men in these events through sexual codes and meeting strategies. The study Explains the relationship between physical space and the re-signification of space as sexual space through sexual practices, considering space as being redefined and reconstructed through these practices by gay men as a subcultural group. The researcher employed a qualitative methodology, including in-depth interviews, group interviews, and insider autoethnography. The findings reveal the emergence of an overlapping space between a site of arts, culture, and entertainment and a sexual space. This process involves contestation and negotiation over new spatial meanings that challenge the socially defined sacred meanings originally attached to space. Sexual strategies and codes are created and mutually recognized within the group. Furthermore, the study finds that although Mor Lam space appears to embrace sexual diversity, gender binary system and male dominance continue to be upheld and reproduced within the practices of gay men. This research expands the study of gay identities beyond the metropolitan context and critically examines the complexity of gender status within a local cultural setting.
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