Alex Han and Ed Lee are the dynamic duo behind RED FLAGGED, a London-based initiative dedicated to uplifting the queer East and Southeast Asian (ESEA) community. Both co-founders are British residents of ESEA heritage and bring complementary strengths to their shared mission.

Alex Han, known for his wit and storytelling flair, initially launched Red Flag as a space to share funny, cringe-worthy, and poignant dating experiences. It soon evolved into RED FLAGGED, a serious platform advocating for visibility and community support. Alex draws on his personal journey navigating love, identity, and cultural expectations, and champions the message that queer ESEA people deserve to be seen, heard, and respected.

Ed Lee, a passionate mental health advocate, uses his lived experience to shape RED FLAGGED’s offerings. He co-created “Asians Anonymous” (AA), a free monthly group therapy session led by queer ESEA therapists, designed to break cultural stigma and provide safe, culturally competent mental health support.

Together, Alex and Ed have transformed RED FLAGGED into a thriving community hub, offering therapy, events, social content, and collaborations, all rooted in the belief that “a healthy you is a healthy community.” Their work challenges stereotypes and carves out spaces where queer ESEA voices are celebrated and empowered.

In this episode of the Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl, Alex, and Ed delve into the emotional labour involved in holding space for others, and the transformative potential of being truly seen and heard.

Together, they unpack the deeper purpose behind RED FLAGGED’s mission, creating spaces where marginalised voices are not just included, but actively celebrated.

From late-night parties that challenge conventional club culture to curated community events and wellness-focused programming, Alex and Ed share how RED FLAGGED focuses on solidarity and connection across generations and identities. 

Follow RED FLAGGED on Instagram here.