Life goes on : narrative inquiry on selected BTS fans and their experiences amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Date

6-2023

Degree

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

College

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Rowena P. De Guzman

Abstract

The Korean Wave, or Hallyu Wave, has gained popularity in East Asia and globally due to advancements in the internet and technology, with BTS being a prominent group in the K-pop trend. Despite their global success, BTS and their fans, known as ARMY, face online hate, discrimination, and negative stereotypes. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted fan engagement but also highlighted fandom's positive impact on fans. Given such an effect, further research is needed to understand the experiences of Filipino ARMYs during the pandemic. This study explores the experiences of Filipino fans of the popular Korean boy group BTS, known as ARMYs, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research aims to understand the effects of the pandemic on the experiences and behaviors of ARMYs in the Philippines. This study also delves into the individual reasons and experiences that shape one's identity as an ARMY. Through in-depth interviews with seven undergraduate students who identified as ARMYs and thematic analysis conducted on their narratives, the study explores the reasons individuals identify as ARMYs, their experiences amid the pandemic, and the meanings they attached to this fandom. The study's findings reveal that individuals become ARMYs due to exposure to BTS and their music, emotional connections, knowledge and engagement, identification and social interaction, and self-expression. Despite the implementation of health restrictions, ARMYs increased their level of engagement with BTS-related content and interaction with other fans, emphasizing the growing importance of media and technology in fan engagement. Furthermore, the study highlights the polarized views on ARMYs and how these attached meanings shape their attitudes and behaviors. This research contributes to the existing literature on fan culture and fan identity by focusing on the experiences of BTS fans in the Philippines during the pandemic. Framed using the ideas of symbolic interactionism, this narrative study also offers valuable and unique insights into existing literature fan culture and fan identity by undertaking a sociological perspective. The study also sheds light on the significance of fandom as a source of emotional support and connection during challenging times and how it can challenge negative stereotypes and create a positive influence.

Language

English

LC Subject

Fan culture -- Philippines -- COVID-19 Pandemic 2020, BTS (Musical group), BTS (Musical group) -- Influence

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

Call Number

LG 993.5 2023 S7 B53

Document Type

Thesis

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS