BTS's Fanbase in Korea: Pre- and Post-International Popularity

When discussing BTS's fanbase in Korea, it's important to delve into the timeline of the group's growth, particularly in the context of their international fame. Many fans and followers may have observed that the fanbase expanded significantly after their popularity surged in the U.S., leading to debates over whether their domestic support was significant before this

Understanding the Fanbase Dynamics

Verifying the exact size and composition of BTS's earlier fanbase in Korea can be challenging. The most reliable source would be BigHit Entertainment, which could provide detailed data on fan engagement metrics, such as visits to message boards and official memberships. However, based on observations and experiences, the narrative of BTS's fanbase growth is more nuanced.

Before Debut

Before BTS debuted, the fanbase primarily consisted of dedicated fans, notably K-Diamonds and I-Lovelies. These fan groups were relatively balanced, with K-Diamonds and I-Lovelies each attracting a decent number of followers. K-Diamonds, characterized by their support and dedication, were a testament to BTS's early core fanbase, but the numbers did not detract from the size of the I-Lovely fanbase.

Moderate Growth Post-Debut

Following their debut, BTS experienced modest growth in terms of fanbase expansion. The number of K-Diamonds increased, but remained smaller compared to the growing I-Lovely fanbase. The I-Lovelys, being the larger group, demonstrated a more substantial following even in these early stages.

Global Recognition and Boom in Korea

The turning point for BTS in Korea occurred around 2016 and 2017, when the group won the Billboard Social Artist Award. This victory marked a significant milestone, leading to a surge in their domestic popularity. The international recognition that followed, particularly in the U.S., only amplified this trend, bringing in a new wave of supporters and consolidating their status as one of Korea's most beloved acts.

closet Fans: A Nuanced Perspective

It's important to note that, during this period, some fans may have been 'closet fans' who favored BTS but preferred to remain anonymous due to cultural pressures or the fear of ridicule. This phenomenon is not unique to BTS. Closet fans often exist in various fandoms, and their presence can skew the apparent size of a fanbase. However, their existence does not diminish the overall impact and growth of the fanbase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BTS's journey to becoming one of the world's most popular K-pop groups was marked by a gradual and then accelerated growth in their fanbase. While domestic support was present and visible, the explosive success in the U.S. played a crucial role in solidifying BTS's position globally. The story of BTS's fanbase in Korea is one of a steady and significant climb, driven by both domestic and international factors.