Presenter Information

Cassie Kwon, Linfield CollegeFollow

Location

Jereld R. Nicholson Library

Date

5-11-2012 3:00 PM

End Date

5-11-2012 4:30 PM

Subject Area

Anthropology

Description

This study explores the online experience of k-pop (Korean Pop Music) and its international fan base. Through ethnographic participation and observation on the Allkpop k-pop gossip website and the 6Theory fan forums, I examine the rituals of devotion and allegiance to k-pop music idols. These rituals are central to forming bonds of social solidarity and community in the absence of face-to-face interaction. Due to their significant role in online k-pop interaction, fans refer to their favorite idols by using the term “bias,” indicating forms of judgment about cultural life. As a form of cultural capital, fans use these biases to differentiate and distinguish themselves as competent and experienced members of the scene.

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May 11th, 3:00 PM May 11th, 4:30 PM

Who Is Your Bias?: The Symbolic Interactions and Social Solidarity of the K-pop Fan Community

Jereld R. Nicholson Library

This study explores the online experience of k-pop (Korean Pop Music) and its international fan base. Through ethnographic participation and observation on the Allkpop k-pop gossip website and the 6Theory fan forums, I examine the rituals of devotion and allegiance to k-pop music idols. These rituals are central to forming bonds of social solidarity and community in the absence of face-to-face interaction. Due to their significant role in online k-pop interaction, fans refer to their favorite idols by using the term “bias,” indicating forms of judgment about cultural life. As a form of cultural capital, fans use these biases to differentiate and distinguish themselves as competent and experienced members of the scene.

 

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