From Antis to Stan: The Surprising Journey of K-pop Fans
When it comes to K-pop, many fans’ opinions can change drastically, even for those who believed they would never stan a particular group. This journey from being an 'anti' to a full-fledged stan is a common story among K-pop enthusiasts. Here are some illuminating examples and insights into this fascinating process.
The Case of Stray Kids: Initial Hesitation to Steady Stan
Stray Kids is a prime example of a K-pop group that many fans initially hesitated to stan, but ultimately found themselves drawn to. Fans, especially those accustomed to more traditional K-pop groups, might have been initially hesitant towards Stray Kids due to their unique sound and bold concepts.
However, over time, as Stray Kids released more music and performed on variety shows, fans began to appreciate their energy, creativity, and relatable personalities. Additionally, the group's dedication to self-producing their music resonated deeply with their followers, leading to a significant following that was perhaps unexpected in the beginning.
The_CONVERTERION Journey of Them: A Walk Down Memory Lane
Seventeen was a group that initially didn't capture my interest, and honestly, I didn't think I would ever stan them. Before discovering seventeen, I was a faithful ARMY and didn’t delve into other groups. It took me a couple of years to even consider exploring other K-pop groups thoroughly.
Only after a couple of months of discovering new K-pop groups did I naturally come across seventeen, and I was immediately captivated. While I gradually distanced myself from BTS as time passed, I still occasionally listen to their music. The maturity and hard work of seventeen, particularly their group chemistry and embrace of individual personalities, deeply impressed me.
A Radical Change in Beliefs: NCT from Anti to Idol
NCT, on the other hand, was initially viewed unfavorably because of personal experiences and interactions with long-standing fan groups. I was once an ardent 'anti' due to a few unprovoked and unjustified TikTok stays that constantly caused arguments with NCT fans.
These stays would often make videos criticizing NCT’s talent and then act as victims when NCT fans fought back to defend their group. This encounter led me to develop a negative opinion of all NCT fans, assuming that all of them were like this toxic group.
However, after interacting with genuine NCT fans and listening to NCT’s music, I completely changed my mind. I now consider myself a proud NCT fan, not just because the individual fans are different, but because the core base of NCT fans is made up of genuine and passionate supporters.
It’s important to note that not all stays or fans are the same. Some are overly sensitive and argumentative, but the majority are passionate and supportive. My journey from anti to stan with NCT was a testament to the power of genuine human connections and honest expression of support.
In conclusion, K-pop fandom is a dynamic and evolving landscape. Fans can go from being an 'anti' to a 'stan' based on a multitude of factors, including the group's talent, interactions with fans, and the overall quality and consistency of their music. The journey, although personal, is a testament to the enduring allure of K-pop and the powerful connections formed within this vibrant community.