Introduction
As a long-standing member of the K-pop fandom, over the past six years, I have been closely following the progression and development of several groups, among which BTS stands out as an undeniable highlight. However, a recent incident compelled me to reconsider my allegiance to the term 'army', the vernacular used to collectively refer to fans of BTS. This experience led me to a deeper reflection on the nature of K-pop fandoms and the importance of maintaining a respectful and harmonious community.
Reflection on the BTS Army Fandom
My journey with K-pop began with BTS six years ago, a group that fascinated and inspired me from the very start. I was deeply entrenched in their fanbase, known as the 'army'. Yet, an incident involving a group called JUST B made me question whether the 'army' was as positive and supportive as I previously believed.
JUST B has three members who are enthusiastic about BTS, particularly notable for their interactions with the idol group. Members like DY and Lim Jimin, who have showcased their admiration through personal actions and performances, added a personal touch to the fanbase. However, the 'army' is not without its challenges.
The term 'army' has a layer of toxicity associated with certain factions, but I found myself part of what seemed to be a more mature and reasonable segment. Nevertheless, the recent incident serves as a reminder that even in a seemingly supportive community, there can be instances of behavior that are not reflective of the group's values. This led me to a decision to support BTS from a distance, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing individual actions from the overall community.
Addressing the Question of Losing Respect for Fandoms
It's crucial to acknowledge that every fandom, regardless of the group they support, contains both good and bad elements. One should not be judge by the worst behavior of a few individuals. It is unfair to entirely lose respect for a fandom based on the actions of a handful of members. Just as one wouldn't judge an entire family based on their drunk auntie, we should not generalize an entire community based on a few misbehaving members.
The question of losing respect for another fandom is often inflammatory. Such inquiries can foster negativity and even lead to fan wars, which do little to promote healthy, supportive communities. Instead, let us focus on enjoying the music and performances of our favorite groups while respecting the diverse communities they represent.
Specific Fandom Experiences
The 'ARMY' and 'STAY' fandoms present interesting cases for reflection. The 'ARMY' is known for its dynamic and passionate fanbase, but it is also notorious for occasional toxic behavior, especially on social media. This culminates in events like the 'Hylt' controversy, where Hindu iconography was used in a disrespectful manner during a performance. The reaction from some fans was unintelligent and brutal, indicating a need for greater sensitivity and understanding within the community.
On the other hand, the 'STAY' fandom has faced similar challenges but with a different issue. Members of this fandom display a clear bias against a member named Woojin, often without a discernible reason. It wasn't until recent confirmation of Woojin's innocence that the community faced a major crisis. This situation highlights the importance of impartiality and evidence in handling issues within a fandom.
Case in Point: Blackpink and Blinks
The 'blinks', or fans of Blackpink, also face scrutiny. A significant controversy arose during the release of a music video featuring Lisa, where a visually appealing throne scene included a depiction of Ganesha, the Hindu lord. This portrayal was deeply offensive to Hindu believers, and several individuals voiced their concerns on social media platforms. The response from the Blackpink fandom was disappointing, with some fans even announcing their departure from the community, signaling a lack of respect and understanding.
The incident with Lisa's performance sparked heated debates, and the negative reactions underscore the importance of cultural sensitivity in fan communities. Fans of Blackpink and other groups should strive to be more considerate of the diverse backgrounds of their audience and creators.
In conclusion, the reevaluation of K-pop fandoms is not about losing respect; it's about understanding and respecting the nuanced nature of these communities. By promoting healthy discourse and mutual respect, we can foster a more harmonious and supportive environment for all fans and their idols.