Understanding K-pop Fandom Trends: What Irritates You the Most?
Disclaimer/Warning
Youre about to see some extremely cringe pictures see on your own responsibility. If you die out of cringe its not my responsibility. Have a Soobin: Let's get it~ Hope you survived!
One of the most irritating behaviors in K-pop fandom among non-Koreans is using Korean terms like Oppa or Onyeoppa. I find it so cringe that I wanna hit them personally with these exclamation marks. Neither are they Korean, and neither is the person they are talking to Korean. Yet, they act like a Koreaboo, insisting that just because you're a K-pop fan, you have to adapt their cultural norms. So, I will not hide their names because I don't care if they get clashed as they need to realize what they are doing is wrong despite being told a million times. A Bleach for you if you get what I mean!
The Most Irritating Fan Behavior: Underhanded Compliments
Now, I am not going to talk about sasengs (stances) people because they are not fans. The fan that I hate the most is the person who always gives underhanded compliments to an idol. This behavior is most visible in the fandoms of groups that are not as popular in the K-pop industry.
While giving an idol a compliment is very sweet, the issue arises with underhanded compliments. Underhanded compliments are like giving a compliment while simultaneously reminding the idol of their past struggles or disapproval. For example, when Lee Chaeryoung, a member of ITZY, debuted, she received a lot of hate for being labeled as 'ugly' and 'talentless,' and 'un deserving' to debut.
Now, Chaeryoung is one of the most appreciated idols in the whole industry, and that is wonderful. However, if you ever see Chaeryoung fans giving her a compliment, those compliments are often like:
"Like, I get it your idol got a lot of hate, but that doesn't mean you always have to give underhanded compliments. Underhanded compliments are as bad as giving no compliments at all. You do not always need to bring up how much your idol receives hate or how much other people disregard her while giving a compliment."
Such behavior can make the person being complimented feel like they are always in a state of explaining or justifying their actions. It strips them of the appreciation and recognition they deserve and is ultimately counterproductive to the fandoms' overall support and positivity.
Conclusion
Being a fan of K-pop is much more than just liking the music or the idols. It is a community that fosters a sense of belonging and support. However, when this sense becomes rigid and demanding, it can turn into something that irritates rather than celebrates. It is essential for all fans to understand that giving genuine, heartfelt compliments can have a profound impact on the idols and the fans themselves. So, let's strive for more positivity and support in our K-pop fandoms, and avoid underhanded compliments. What kind of behavior irritates you the most in K-pop fandoms? Share your thoughts in the comments below!