The Dark Side of Idol Stalking: Why Sasaeng Fans Obsessively Follow BTS

Obsession coupled with compulsion. People can’t help themselves in their single-minded thought about someone or something. Schizophrenia, where they have delusions or alternate realities; or greed, an intense desire for something or someone and a sense of selfishness. Can these mental illnesses be the driving force behind the behavior of Sasaeng fans who follow BTS so intently?

But let's not fool ourselves. We all have a side of ourselves that is obsessed, to a certain lesser degree. We are all fans of something or someone. I know of a person who will only order from Starbucks or become fixated on a particular show or artist. We all are constantly focused on our idols and need to know and see everything they’ve been up to. We all have our own fantasies of being a part of their lives. This intense desire to obtain their merchandise showcases our own greed as fans.

Sasaengs: The Obsessed Stalkers

Upon understanding the term "sasaeng," it is apparent that these are obsessed stalkers. This dark side of celebrity life can sometimes result in tragic outcomes. These individuals have delved into a skewed reality where their idols are more than just their idols. Their focus on the stars is beyond a normal amount. They often believe in a genuine relationship with their idols, even going as far as to threaten the very artists they admire.

Behavior associated with Sasaeng fans is not limited to physically following around BTS. On social media, many ARMY (BTS fans) and solo stans can exhibit similar behaviors. For example, I recently encountered a JK solo stan on Twitter. Her irrational, illogical, and extremely defensive actions were bewildering. It was clear that she was reacting irrationally, but from her perspective, anyone who disagrees with her is disrespecting JK. It was like talking to a delusional supporter of a controversial figure, absurd and illogical.

Toxic Behavior and Lack of Emotional Maturity

Most of these solo stans are what ARMY calls “toxic.” But even non-toxic fans can go overboard in their “defense” of their idols, particularly when they perceive any kind of insult. Young people, who are still learning to manage their emotions, can exhibit such behaviors. Scientifically, young people find it challenging to regulate their emotions. As older individuals, it is our responsibility to be more tolerant and understand that fans derive their support through various means, such as donations, merchandise, and vocal support.

I, myself, may feel upset over insults, especially when they are based on ignorance, but I control my reactions and do not create disturbances. The key is to find a balance between standing up for what we believe in and maintaining a semblance of rationality.

Conclusion

In reflecting on these behaviors, it is clear that the issue stems from a combination of obsession, compulsion, and mental health issues. While we should not ignore the problems associated with Sasaeng fans and their behaviors, it is important to understand that these issues arise from various factors, including emotional immaturity and societal pressure. As fans and observers, we must strive to support our idols in a respectful and constructive manner, while also prioritizing our mental health and wellbeing.