What is Josou Seme?

Definition: “Josou seme” (女装攻め) is a term from Japanese Boys’ Love (BL) or yaoi culture, which refers to a specific character type and dynamic in a relationship. Here’s a breakdown of the term and its components:

• Josou (女装): This word translates to “cross-dressing” and typically refers to a male character who dresses in female clothing. The word “josou” is derived from “女” (jo), meaning “woman,” and “装” (sou), meaning “clothing” or “dress.”
• Seme (攻め): This term refers to the dominant or “top” partner in a BL relationship. The “seme” character typically takes the lead in the relationship, both emotionally and sexually.

Therefore, “josou seme” describes a dominant or top character in a BL relationship who engages in cross-dressing. This character often retains a traditionally masculine role within the dynamic, despite their feminine appearance. This trope plays with gender norms and can explore themes of identity, power, and attraction in unique and often subversive ways.

Example: If you watch anime, you’ll notice some cute boys called traps. These boys look a lot like girls without much effort. Sometimes, there are traps who are assertive and not shy. They’re called Josou Semes. Unlike femboys, Josou Semes are confident and tough like regular guys, even though they look feminine. In hentai, they usually take the dominant role

“Josou Seme” Is Related to LGBTQ+

The term “josouseme” is related to LGBTQ+ or LGBTQCIA themes in the sense that it deals with gender expression and relationships between male characters. However, it’s important to understand the context in which it’s used:

1. Fictional Representation: “Josou seme” is primarily a trope found in Boys’ Love (BL) or yaoi, which are genres of fiction that focus on romantic and/or sexual relationships between male characters. These genres are popular in manga, anime, and other forms of media, particularly in Japan. They are often created by and for women, though they have a diverse audience.
2. Gender Expression: The concept involves a male character who cross-dresses, which touches on themes of gender expression and non-conformity. Cross-dressing itself is a form of gender expression that can be part of someone’s identity in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly within transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals.
3. Relationship Dynamics: The seme (top) and uke (bottom) dynamics are central to BL and yaoi. While these terms describe sexual roles, they also encompass broader personality and relationship traits. The “josou seme” subverts typical expectations by having the traditionally dominant partner present in a feminine manner.
4. Cultural Context: While BL and yaoi explore male-male relationships, they are not always reflective of real-life LGBTQ+ experiences. These genres often prioritize fantasy and entertainment, sometimes leading to portrayals that are not fully aligned with the realities and sensitivities of LGBTQ+ lives.

Shortly, while “josouseme” incorporates elements of gender and sexuality that are relevant to LGBTQ+ discussions, it is primarily a fictional trope within a specific genre of media. Its relationship to the LGBTQ+ community is more about the exploration of themes rather than direct representation.

Understanding “Josou Seme” in Different Contexts

The concept of “josou seme” encompasses several nuances and cultural contexts that are worth understanding. Here are a few additional points:

1. Cultural Nuances: In Japanese media, the exploration of gender and sexuality can be quite different from Western perspectives. Cross-dressing and playing with gender roles are common themes in Japanese entertainment, not just in BL or yaoi but also in other genres. This reflects a broader cultural fascination with fluid identities and roles.
2. Fan Interpretations: The meaning and portrayal of “josou seme” can vary widely depending on the story and the creators. Fans may interpret and appreciate these characters in diverse ways, and the trope can be used to explore a range of themes from comedic to deeply emotional.
3. Complex Characters: Characters who fit the “josou seme” archetype can be complex and multi-dimensional. They may challenge traditional notions of masculinity and dominance, providing a richer narrative experience.
4. Genre Conventions: Within the BL and yaoi genres, there are many sub-genres and tropes. “Josou seme” is just one of many, and understanding it in the context of other tropes (like “bishounen” for beautiful boys, “oyaji” for older men, etc.) can give a more comprehensive view of the genre’s landscape.
5. Market and Audience: BL and yaoi are often marketed towards women, and the tropes used within these genres can reflect the fantasies and interests of this audience. The depiction of a dominant male character in feminine clothing can play into various fantasies about power, vulnerability, and beauty.
6. Not Necessarily Reflective of Real-Life LGBTI Identities: While “josou seme” involves cross-dressing and same-sex relationships, it is primarily a fictional and artistic expression. It does not necessarily reflect the real-life experiences of LGBT2Q+ individuals, who may have different perspectives on gender, sexuality, and identity.

josou seme is a multifaceted term rooted in the specific cultural and narrative traditions of Japanese BL and yaoi genres. It is a rich and diverse trope that can be interpreted in many ways by creators and fans alike.