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Journalist's journey from BTS skeptic to devoted fan detailed in new book

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • A South Korean journalist explores his unexpected transformation from a critic of K-pop idols to a devoted fan of BTS in his new book, 'My Little Universe'.
  • The book details his journey, sparked by his daughters' passion, and analyzes the unique ecosystem of idol fandom through a journalist's objective lens.
  • It highlights the emotional connection fans share with BTS, suggesting their appeal lies in imperfection and shared experiences rather than manufactured perfection.

Han Seung-ju, a veteran journalist and editorial writer for the Kookmin Ilbo, found himself unexpectedly becoming a devoted fan of the K-pop group BTS, a transformation he chronicles in his new book, 'My Little Universe.' Initially viewing idols as highly engineered business models, his perspective shifted after observing his daughters' fervent dedication.

We trust each other among ARMY.

— Russian ARMY memberThe author recounts trusting a Russian ARMY member to purchase concert tickets, highlighting the strong bond within the fandom.

His journey into fandom, or 'deok-tong-sa-go' (fangirling accident), began in November 2018. While attending a concert with his daughter, he was struck by BTS's performance, prompting him to investigate further. Delving into their past content, he realized BTS offered something distinct from the conventional K-pop formula.

The book recounts his experiences as a fan, from the struggles of securing concert tickets to the camaraderie shared with fellow fans, known as ARMY, during his "pilgrimage" to BTS landmarks worldwide. He shares an anecdote about trusting a Russian ARMY member with a ticket purchase, highlighting the "ARMY trust each other" mentality.

What is changing?

— Han Seung-juThe author's initial reaction upon seeing BTS perform, sparking his deeper investigation into the group.

Beyond personal fandom, Han analyzes the idol industry. He observes the intense fan behavior around ticket sales and merchandise, questioning the gap between fan sentiment and corporate data analysis. He probes who designs the "fandom economy" and whose perspective it serves.

There is a world different from the K-pop grammar we knew.

— Han Seung-juHis realization after researching BTS's past content and performances.

Han argues that BTS's success stems not from perfection, but from their imperfections, allowing fans to feel they have "lived their time together" with the group. The book aims to resonate with readers, inspiring a desire to share long periods with someone, whether it's an idol or not.

We did not consume BTS; we lived their time together.

— Han Seung-juHis conclusion about the fan-group relationship, emphasizing shared experiences over passive consumption.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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