Why Spend Time Chasing Stars?: Identity Construction in K-Pop Fan Communities

Abstract

With the gradual expansion of the influence of Korean pop culture (K-pop), more and more K-pop idols have started to gain international recognition and attract a growing number of fans worldwide. Based on theories related to fan group research and identity research, this paper explains the identity construction process and outcomes of fan group members. This paper also offers insights into understanding the conflicts between fan culture and mainstream culture and elucidates the interaction between fan groups and mainstream society. The paper provides a reference for understanding the friction between fan culture and mainstream culture and clarifying the interaction between fan groups and mainstream society. Through participant observation and semi-structured in-depth interviews, a qualitative approach was adopted to understand the experiences, values, and lifestyles of K-pop fans. The results of the study show that K-pop fans are not only following their favorite idols but also seeking a sense of belonging and identity in their pursuit of these idols. Driven by a variety of social factors, the process and outcome of this type of identity formation, characterized by being low-cost, easy to reproduce, and high in emotional intensity, consistently infiltrate different aspects of socio-economic, cultural, and political spheres, giving rise to the “fan effect.” However, fan identity is one of the symbols associated with individuals, but it does not necessarily indicate complete support and belonging. Instead of stating that the frantic pursuit of stars is a result of social issues caused by the fan base, it is more crucial to acknowledge that the cultural phenomenon of being a fan is a cultural manifestation of certain social symptoms. The practice of fan culture is more of a cultural symptom of certain social disorders than a series of social problems caused by fans.