The Influence of K-Pop Fandom on Cross-Cultural Social Identity among Indonesian Teenagers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37899/mjds.v2i4.218Keywords:
Cross-Cultural Identity, Digital Fandom, Globalization, Indonesian Teenagers, K-Pop Fandom, Social Identity TheoryAbstract
The rapid expansion of Korean popular culture has transformed digital fandom into an important space for intercultural interaction and youth identity formation. This study aims to examine how participation in K-pop fandom influences the cross-cultural social identity of Indonesian teenagers. A qualitative descriptive case-study approach was employed using semi-structured interviews, participant observation, document analysis, and supporting survey data collected from active members of K-pop fandom communities. The findings reveal that fandom participation promotes cultural learning through language acquisition, appreciation of Korean culture, intercultural communication, and selective cultural adaptation while simultaneously strengthening social belonging, peer relationships, creativity, and collective participation. However, challenges related to consumerism, stereotypes, parental conflict, and social conformity also emerge. The study demonstrates that K-pop fandom functions as a participatory social environment where adolescents negotiate hybrid identities by integrating global cultural influences with local cultural values. These findings contribute to the understanding of digital youth culture and provide practical implications for educators, families, and policymakers in promoting positive intercultural engagement and digital citizenship among adolescents.
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