Fridae

The Korean public is aghast at a rash of celebrity suicides. In the week following the apparent suicide of popular actress Choi Jin-sil on Oct 2, two queer entertainers are also suspected of taking their own lives.

Republican vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin not only says that sexual orientation is a "choice" but it can also be "prayed away" in a recent TV interview. And on Thursday, Palin and her Democratic rival Joe Biden say they oppose same-sex marriage but are agreeable to other civil rights.

The Union government has supported the stand of the Home Ministry in opposing the plea for decriminalisation of homosexuality, arguing that decriminalisation would promote delinquent behaviour and cause moral degradation in society.

It was all cheers, noise and flamboyance when Asia's largest pride parade took to the streets in Taipei last Saturday. Fridae's Taipei correspondent Jason Tan witnesses yet another significant milestone in the community's history. Photos and additional text by Choo Lip Sin.

Why would five Taiwanese dig into their savings of NT$1 million (US$31,000), just to screen Thai flick The Love of Siam in theatres in Taiwan? Fridae's Taipei correspondent Jason Tan finds out more.

In 72 hours, the Home Affairs and Health ministries will have to agree on one position and argue its case in court after warning that it will go ahead with its verdict should they fail to meet the deadline.

Into its sixth year of running, Taipei LGBT Pride Parade is making its impact felt in Asia with the largest turnout of 15,000 last year. Fridae's Taipei correspondent Jason Tan talks to the organisers of this year's parade and finds out if there would be any surprises awaiting the community.

Japanese-American actor George Takei best known for his portrayal of Mr Sulu in the Star Trek television and film series, has married his longtime partner on Sunday.

Armed with a doctorate in political science, and a background in HIV/AIDS activism and prison reform, self-described "butch dyke" Rachel Maddow has become the first out lesbian to host a political commentary show on US television.

Malaysia's Freedom Film Festival, which ended its run in Kuala Lumpur last weekend, will be in Johor Bahru this weekend (Sep 12-14), followed by Kuching (Sep 19-21) and Penang (Sep 26-28) with four LGBT-themed films among 30.