Compensated dating, often referred to as “enjo kosai” in Japan or “sponsored dating” in other parts of Asia, is a phenomenon where individuals, typically young women, engage in compensated relationships with older, wealthier individuals. In Bangkok, Thailand, compensated dating is a complex social issue that intersects with factors such as economic inequality, cultural norms, and the allure of material wealth. While some view it as a form of survival in a challenging economic landscape, others criticize it as exploitative and harmful to participants’ well-being. Understanding the dynamics of compensated dating in Bangkok requires a nuanced examination of its social, cultural, and economic contexts.