The Unexpected Path to Becoming a K-pop Stan: A Personal Journey
When I first heard about BTS in 2018, I didn't expect that my journey as a K-pop stan would begin in such an unexpected way. The year was 2018, and the iconic collaboration between BTS and Nicki Minaj on their Idol remix launched me on a path that I did not foresee. At the time, I was a huge fan of Barbadian pop star Rihanna, changing my handle to 'nIcKi MiNaJ', but I despised the collaboration, much to my peers' surprise. However, in 2019, the hit 'Boy With Luv' with Halsey reignited my interest, leading me to become a casual fan for a while.
Fast forward to October 2020, Fake Love from BTS autoplayed on my music player, and I was instantly hooked. Following this, I listened to DNA and NO, solidifying my status as a casual K-pop fan. But it wasn't until I heard the track DDU-DU DDU-DU that my obsession was officially sealed.
My journey as a K-pop stan began much earlier, however, in 2013 on my 7th birthday. It was a chance encounter at my friend's house that set the wheels in motion. I remember the old Korean man in his 70s who loved to talk to the TV and had a daughter in Seoul. He told me that if I was not afraid, I could become a fan of BamBam, one of BTS's members. At first, I didn't understand, but his words stuck with me.
That day, the man spoke about BTS and showed me a video. I didn't know a thing about them, but I was inquisitive. He asked if I wanted to become a fangirl and, trusting him, I said yes. He then told me, "Congratulations, you are now part of my family." The impact of those words was profound. He said I would one day meet his granddaughter, and we would be a happy family. He told me that he talked to the TV because he was really on the phone, simply enjoying the imagery of the screen.
When my friend returned, she scolded the old man, and I felt awful. Before she could go, I asked him more questions, but he was leaving. I later learned that he had a granddaughter living in Seoul. On that same day, I went to my friend's grandmother's house and saw an ambulance with the old man's granddaughter inside, crying forlornly. She told me in Korean that she wanted to be my friend, and I agreed, despite not understanding a word.
Years later, her story stayed with me, and I repeatedly heard BTS songs around me. Eventually, I became a true K-pop stan, fascinated by the group's music and culture. Even though my parents and family didn't initially know about my BTS obsession, it became an important part of my identity.
Every year on my birthday, I visit the grave of the old man who introduced me to BTS and his granddaughter. He taught me the value of kindness and self-love. Though I never met his younger granddaughter, he showed me the importance of BTS and the profound impact they can have on someone's life.
My journey as a K-pop stan is a testament to how destiny can intertwine you with people and music that shape your life in unexpected ways. It's a story of how love, curiosity, and serendipity can lead to lifelong passion.