Asia is home to popular shemales who are making waves in fields like entertainment and modelling. Whether it is Thailand, Korea, or the Philippines, these shemales have proven their talent and resilience to the world. Join us as we uncover the top 12 Asian shemales, their stories, and their impact on society.
In various parts of Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines, transgender women, commonly referred to as ladyboys or Kathoey, have captured the imagination of people worldwide. Their allure lies in their delicate features, slender frames, and often remarkable beauty, which has earned them a unique place in popular culture.
Unlike in some Western societies where transgender identity might face stigma and challenges, many Asian cultures have a more accepting attitude towards shemale individuals, fostering an environment where they can thrive.
It is not uncommon for shemale teenagers in these countries to receive support from their families for hormone therapy, allowing them to develop more feminine traits early on. This acceptance has led many transgender women to pursue careers in modelling, acting, singing, and entertainment, where their beauty often surpasses that of cisgender women.
In this article, we look into Asian shemales, exploring their unique journeys, societal acceptance, and the impact they have made in various industries, from aesthetics to entertainment.
1. Rinrada Yoshi Thurapan
Rinrada Thurapan, also known as Yoshi Rinrada, is a popular Thai transgender celebrity who has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry. Born on 5th February 1997 in Roi Et, Thailand, Rinrada embraced her transgender identity from an early age. Supported by her family, she underwent gender confirmation surgery at the age of 18, transitioning into her true self.
Her fame skyrocketed as she ventured into modelling, acting, and beauty pageants. She clinched the prestigious title of Miss Tiffany Universe in 2017 and secured the runner-up position in the Miss International Queen Competition in 2018. Rinrada's exquisite beauty and talent have earned her accolades and opportunities in various realms, including endorsements for prominent cosmetic brands and acting roles in Thai movies and TV shows.
Beyond her achievements on the screen and the stage, Rinrada Thurapan is also a social media sensation, captivating audiences with charm and grace and an active presence on Instagram and YouTube.
2. Ai Haruna
Ai Haruna, a transsexual television personality and singer, rose to fame in Japan after winning the Miss International Queen 2009 transgender beauty pageant in Thailand, becoming the first Japanese contestant to achieve this honour. Born as Kenji Ōnishi in Osaka on 21st July 1972, Haruna underwent sex reassignment surgery at the age of 19, transitioning into her true identity.
Haruna gained initial recognition by impersonating famous Japanese singer Aya Matsuura. Following her victory in the Miss International Queen pageant, she became a prominent figure in Japanese entertainment, appearing on various television variety shows alongside her friend and fellow transsexual Ayana Tsubaki.
In addition to her television career, Haruna has released several singles, including “I・U・Yo・Ne,” “Natsu Dekoboko Love,” “Crazy Love,” “Motto Ai o,” and “Eenende.” She has also collaborated on the song “Momi Momi Fantastic” with Asia Engineer.
3. Treechada Poyd Petcharat
Nationality Thai Date of Birth 5th October 1986 Place of Birth Phang Nga, Thailand Height 5’ 9” Hair Color Black Eye Color Dark Brown Occupation Model, Actress, Activist Profile Instagram
Treechada Petcharat, also known as Nong Poy, is a renowned transgender actress and model from Thailand. Born on 5th October 1986 in Phuket Island, Poy underwent gender-affirming surgery at the age of 17, embracing her true identity as a woman.
Her journey to fame began in 2004 when she clinched the titles of Miss Tiffany's Universe and Miss International Queen, prestigious beauty pageants for transgender individuals. These victories propelled her into the spotlight and kickstarted her successful career in entertainment and modelling.
Despite initial challenges and a lack of support from her family, Poy pursued her dream of womanhood and became a symbol of beauty and grace in Thailand. Through her advocacy work, she has championed the rights of transgender women both locally and internationally. Poy's achievements as an actress, model, and LGBTQ rights activist have earned her respect and admiration, making her a prominent figure in Thai culture and beyond.
4. Harisu
Harisu is a South Korean pop singer, model, and actress who gained fame in the early 2000s. Born as a male, she realized her real identity as a female from a young age. Despite societal challenges and a failed relationship in her teenage years, she pursued hormone replacement therapy. She underwent several surgeries, including sex reassignment surgery, to align her physical appearance with her gender identity.
Harisu's breakthrough came in 2001 when she appeared in a TV commercial for DoDo Cosmetics, captivating viewers with her stunning appearance. This led to a successful career in music, acting, and modelling. She recorded Korean and Mandarin albums and appeared in various films and TV series in Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
As one of the first openly transgender public figures in conservative South Korea, Harisu faced scrutiny and judgment but bravely advocated for transgender rights and shared her experiences to foster understanding.
5. Kevin Roxas Balot
As the only male child in her family, Kevin Balot faced challenges in finding acceptance, especially from her father, who had hoped she would become an engineer. Despite criticism for her interest in makeup, Kevin pursued her identity as a transgender woman. Transitioning from male to female was emotionally and physically demanding, but she persevered. Kevin financed her college studies as a nursing student by entering LGBTQIA++ beauty pageants, where she gained recognition and support.
In 2012, Kevin made history as the first Filipina to win the prestigious Miss International Queen title in Pattaya, Thailand, without undergoing sexual reassignment surgery. Her natural beauty and talent captured the hearts of many, earning her a large following on social media. Despite not being active in the entertainment industry, Kevin has become an influential figure, serving as an ambassador for brands like Pantene and Frontrow.
6. Nguyen Huong Giang
Huong Giang, born on 29th December 1991 in Hanoi, Vietnam, faced challenges in her childhood due to societal non-acceptance of her transgender identity. Despite struggles with dressing and speaking like a female, she persevered. Huong Giang emerged as one of Vietnam's most successful pop singers, breaking barriers by participating as the first transgender singer in Vietnam Idol's fourth season.
Her fame soared further when she represented Vietnam and won the Miss International Queen 2018 competition in Pattaya, Thailand, becoming the first Vietnamese to do so. Her victory catapulted her into the spotlight internationally, earning her recognition as one of the most beautiful contestants in the pageant's history. Huong Giang's success led to her becoming the national director of Miss International Queen Vietnam.
7. Lingling Piyada Inthavong
Nationality Lao Date of Birth 13th November 1992 Place of Birth Piyada, Laos Height 5’ 5” Hair Color Brown Eye Color Dark Brown Occupation Model Profile Instagram
Piyada, born male in Laos to a family of doctors, always felt like a girl during childhood. As a teenager, she struggled with dressing as a man and eventually decided to transition after being inspired by shemales in Thailand. With the support of her conservative father, Piyada underwent sex reassignment surgery at 19, which boosted her confidence as a woman.
Following her transition, Piyada pursued modelling in Thailand, fulfilling her long-held aspirations. Her participation in the 2014 Miss International Queen transgender beauty pageant garnered attention, especially after she posted a picture with famous Thai transgender model Poyd Treechada on Instagram. Despite not winning the crown, Piyada's stunning beauty and complexion earned her comparisons to renowned models. She became a celebrity in Asia and now resides in Bangkok, where she continues to thrive as a top model, sharing her life and work on social media platforms like Instagram.
8. Kayo Satoh
Kayo Satoh, born on 26th December 1988 in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, is a well-known model and television personality. She gained widespread fame in September 2010 after revealing on her blog that she was assigned male at birth. Despite facing challenges with gender identity disorder since childhood, Satoh began her modelling career in Nagoya in 2008 and became exclusively associated with the Japanese fashion magazine “Spy Girl” in 2009. Her announcement on a Japanese TV program about her birth sex stirred controversy but also brought her nationwide recognition.
Satoh's influence extends beyond Japan, impacting the global modelling scene. With over 90,000 followers on her Instagram account, she remains a prominent figure in the industry. She has also authored a “Re-born” book released in June 2011.
9. Jess Labares
Jess Labares, originally from Cebu City, Philippines, made history by becoming one of Cebu Pacific's first transgender flight attendants. Raised in Ormoc City, she faced confusion and discomfort in elementary school as teachers classified her as a boy despite identifying as a girl, a truth her parents recognized and supported.
Transitioning from the call center industry to beauty pageants at the encouragement of friends, Jess found empowerment and acceptance. Despite not dreaming of becoming a flight attendant as a child, she pursued this career with determination and hard work. Jess, alongside Mikee Vitug, shattered barriers as the first openly transgender flight attendants for Cebu Pacific, marking a milestone for inclusivity in the aviation industry.
10. Alicia Liu
Nationality Taiwanese Date of Birth 12th June 1986 Place of Birth Taoyuan City, Taiwan Height 5’ 7” Hair Color Black Eye Color Black Occupation Model, TV Personality Profile Instagram, Facebook
Alicia Liu, also known as Xiao Ai, is a Taiwanese model and television personality who has gained fame in Taiwan's fashion industry. Born on 12th June 1986 in Taoyuan, Liu underwent sex reassignment surgery at 18, transitioning from male to female.
Her career took off in October 2006 when she participated in a fashion contest on Taiwan TVBS, marking the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry. Subsequently, Liu signed with Taiwan EeLin Modeling Agency Ltd. in September 2008, establishing herself as a professional model.
She gained popularity through her appearances in various Taiwanese TV programs, particularly in parody shows, where she showcased her talent and charisma. Despite facing challenges and being outed in January 2010 by a former schoolmate, Liu courageously held a press conference to affirm her identity as a transsexual. Supported by family, colleagues, and her agency, Liu's openness about her journey has inspired many and has not hindered her success in the entertainment industry.
11. Lars Pacheco
Lars Pacheco, born on 19th May 1994 in the Philippines, is a well-known Filipino model, YouTube content creator, Instagram star, and former beauty pageant winner. Rising to prominence through her participation and victory in the Miss Gay Pageant in 2017, Lars became recognized for her abilities beyond traditional beauty pageant standards. She gained attention through her involvement in the Miss Q and A segment of the Filipino noontime show “It's Showtime,” where contestants engage in debates rather than typical beauty pageant categories.
Transitioning into a social media influencer career in 2016, Lars expanded her reach and popularity, leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Known for her articulate communication skills and passable femininity, Lars has amassed a significant following across various social media channels. Her YouTube channel, Lars Pacheco, with over 405k subscribers, showcases her content and engages her audience further.
12. Francine Garcia
Francine Garcia, born on 4th December 1994 in the Philippines, is a model, Instagram star, and well-known personality in the entertainment industry. Beginning her modelling career in 2012 with posts on Instagram, she quickly gained attention for her mix of lifestyle and travel photography, amassing over 275,000 followers.
In 2011, Francine underwent sex change surgery, marking a significant personal milestone. Her breakthrough came in 2013 when she won the title of Super Sireyna on the TV show Eat Bulaga, catapulting her into the limelight. Transitioning to become an actor on GMA Network, she appeared in various TV programs and movies, including Villa Quintana and Quick Change. Participating in the Miss International Queen 2015 pageant, Francine also secured the title of Best Introductory Video, further solidifying her presence in the industry.
Conclusion
Above are some of the most famous Asian shemales who have made significant strides in various fields, including entertainment, modelling, and social media. Despite some facing societal challenges, they have embraced their identities and succeeded in inspiring others. Their journeys reflect resilience, determination, and the power of self-expression. As they continue to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, their contributions to the LGBTQ+ community and society remain invaluable. Their accomplishments pave the way for greater acceptance, understanding, and inclusivity, impacting the world around them.
