Korea-Flexing 101: A Fan's Journey Through K-Pop
Have you ever wondered what it means to be a K-Pop flex? This article explores the journey of a K-Pop enthusiast and reveals some of their most significant flexes. From owning albums to attending concerts and meeting their idols, this journey takes you through the world of K-Pop fandom.
Understanding K-Pop Flexes
For many K-Pop fans, flexing refers to bragging about their knowledge or involvement with K-Pop. Whether it's the number of albums they own, the concerts they've attended, or their close connections with idols, these flexes are a testament to how passionate they are about their favorite artists. In this article, we'll delve into the world of K-Pop flexing through the eyes of a dedicated fan.
Album Ownership
Album ownership is a key aspect of K-Pop flexing. Having a comprehensive collection of albums can be a point of pride for many fans. Our fan, for instance, boasts a vast collection of Stray Kids and Seventeen albums. They own seven Stray Kids albums, including 'Live', 'NoEasy', and 'Maxident', which are all S-class releases. On the other hand, they own four Seventeen albums, including 'Sector 17', 'Repackage', 'FML 17 is Right Here', and 'JW Last Night'. This impressive collection speaks volumes about their dedication to the genre and their favorite artists.
Live Experiences
Live performances and concerts are another significant aspect of K-Pop fandom. One of our fan's proudest moments was attending the 'Maniac World Tour' and even meeting Hannah from Stray Kids. They also attended the Seventeen concerts in Fukuoka through Caratland 2024, which they watched online. These experiences not only create lasting memories but also solidify their status as a dedicated fan.
Personal Stories and Connections
Having personal connections with idols or related to the K-Pop industry is yet another form of flexing. Our fan lived close to the homes of many idols and even passed by idols on the road a few times. They still recall walking past a former local high school classmate who was a famous girl group member, a moment that adds a personal touch to their K-Pop journey. Other connections, such as being noticed by idols during live streams or being given fan merchandise by idols, add to the richness of their experience.
Beyond the Basics
While owning albums and attending concerts are common flexes, our fan also takes pride in other aspects of their fandom. They have received attention from various idols, including RIIZE, ARrC, and BTS members, through fan letters and interactions. They also own various K-Pop-related items, such as BT21 hairbands, phone cases, and stickers. Even attending concerts and meeting idols in the same city adds to their collection of experiences.
Personal Reflections
Despite all these accomplishments, our fan is still relatively modest in their broader fan activities. They do not vote in fan campaigns, go to many concerts, or spend a large amount of money on merch. They typically spend around 80,000 KRW ($55 USD) annually on four albums, which is a fraction of what they could afford with their weekly allowance. This shows that being a K-Pop fan is not just about the money, but also about passion and connection.
Conclusion
Being a K-Pop fan involves more than just owning albums or attending concerts. It's a personal journey filled with connections, experiences, and a deep appreciation for the art and artists. Whether it's meeting idols, receiving fan merchandise, or simply being noticed and appreciated, every fan has their unique story to share. As our fan has shown, K-Pop fandom is all about the heart and the soul behind the music.