How jealous K-pop super fans try to dictate their idols' private lives

Key Facts

• That Karina felt compelled to say sorry for being in a relationship has puzzled many outside the K-pop scene, but it opens a window into the world of the industry's "super fans".
• Image source, Getty Images Image caption, K-pop star Karina has apologised to her fans after news of her dating actor Lee Jae-wook went public Some believe the artistes themselves and their management agencies have facilitated a "false intimacy" between idols and fans.
• "They were angry about the dating, and then they got angry that she apologised in the 'wrong way'," said Saeji, an assistant professor in Korean and East Asian Studies, referring to how some fans felt Karina should have posted her apology in a fans-only forum - rather than on a public platform.
• Ms Jeong, who considers herself a dedicated K-pop fan, also takes part in "fan labour" by streaming the music of her favourite boyband NCT 127 and paying to vote for them on music platforms and award shows.

Click To Read Full Article