BTS ARMY and VIP: The Chill Fandoms Embracing Idol Marriages
What sets the K-pop fandom apart is its diverse range of attitudes towards the personal lives of their idols, particularly their relationships. Among these, two notable fandoms stand out for their relaxed and supportive behaviors: ARMY (BTS's fandom) and VIP (Shinee's fandom). This article explores how these fanbases handle instances where their idols become spouses, using specific examples to highlight their unique approaches.
ARMY's Relaxed Stance on Idol Marriages
ARMY, the official and expansive fanbase of BTS, often receives praise for its laid-back and supportive attitude when it comes to their idols' personal lives. This was notably demonstrated when BTS members Jin (Taeyang) and Hyori showed their relationship in public and eventually got married. Rather than criticism, their fans, known as ARMY, supported them wholeheartedly.
During their reality show, Radiostar, members of ARMY frequently expressed understanding and even humor when discussing the challenges of their idols' relationship. In one episode, they shared how Jin suffered during a fight with Hyori, yet they continued to support the couple throughout their journey together. Jin's affection for Hyori was also shown through a romantic song called Eyes, Nose and Lips, further cementing their dedication and support.
The VIP Fandom: Reliable and Chill
The fandom for Shinee, widely known as VIP, is another shining example of a chill and supportive fanbase. Unlike some other K-pop fandoms, VIP did not scold their idols Taemin (Taeyang) and Hyori for their relationship. Instead, they celebrated and embraced it. It's a stark contrast to the behavior of VIP's sister fandoms, who are generally known for their rigorous expectations and more aggressive behaviors.
When Daesung and TOP of Shinee were rumored to be dating, VIP showed support without backlash. They understood that it was not the artists' responsibility to confirm or share every detail of their personal lives. This mature and respectful attitude has earned them the reputation of being one of the most reliable and chill K-pop fandoms.
Total Serenity: GD and Jenny
Further emphasizing the chill nature of these fandoms, there's the remarkable case of GD of SHINee and Jenny, who welcomed the unexpected news of their marriage and the birth of their daughter, Dara. The public reaction from VIP was one of shock and joy. Even fans of GD's fan fiction, who were reading stories about his past relationships, were taken aback by this turn of events. It highlights the level of mature and accepting behavior exhibited by these fanbases.
Moreover, GD has shown a sense of responsibility when it comes to handling his personal life. While he is willing to accept public scrutiny if his relationship becomes public, he also asserts that it is not his duty to confirm or broadcast every detail to the media. This approach demonstrates a balanced and mature understanding of media and personal life boundaries.
Conclusion
Whether it's through open support, understanding, or a balanced approach to personal boundaries, ARMY and VIP stand out as exemplary fandoms when it comes to handling their idols' marriages. These examples underscore the importance of a chill and supportive fanbase, enhancing the overall positive experiences for K-pop idols and their fans alike.