Core Viewpoint - The article explores the phenomenon of fan culture surrounding the idol training company Times Fengjun, highlighting the intense dedication of young fans and the commercialization of idol culture, particularly focusing on the practices and implications of fan engagement and the idol training system [7][42][45]. Group 1: Fan Culture and Engagement - Fans, primarily young girls, gather outside the Times Fengjun office building, demonstrating their dedication by waiting for hours to catch a glimpse of their idols [6][8]. - Social media platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu serve as hubs for fan interaction, with significant engagement metrics such as TFboy's super topic posts reaching 110 million and daily interactions exceeding 200,000 [11][12]. - The fan community actively engages in discussions about idols' performances and personal lives, showcasing a blend of emotional investment and critical analysis [11][12]. Group 2: Commercialization of Fan Activities - Fans have developed a system of renting and selling spots for optimal viewing during idol appearances, indicating a market for "position trading" that has emerged informally among fans [18][19]. - The practice of "代拍" (dai pai), where fans capture and sell photos of idols, has become a significant revenue stream, with prices for photos ranging from 50 to 200 yuan, depending on quality and rarity [22][26]. - The introduction of "高会" (Gao Hui) memberships allows fans to access exclusive content and participate in resale activities, further blurring the lines between emotional support and commercial transactions [30][31]. Group 3: Idol Training System - Times Fengjun employs a "养成系" (training system) model, focusing on the growth and development of idols from a young age, which has proven effective in building a loyal fanbase [34][39]. - The company has faced challenges, including the high dropout rate of trainees and the ethical implications of commercializing underage idols, raising concerns about the sustainability of this model [42][45]. - Despite the success of groups like TFboys and TNT, the company must navigate the complexities of maintaining fan engagement while managing the pressures placed on young idols [45][46].

Core Viewpoint - The concert of the Times Youth League in Shanghai is expected to attract over 300,000 fans, significantly boosting local consumption in various sectors such as entertainment, accommodation, dining, and shopping [2][10]. Group 1: Concert Impact on Local Economy - The concert is projected to increase hotel bookings around Shanghai Stadium by 266% compared to previous periods, with a 66% year-on-year increase in hotel reservations during the concert week [9][10]. - Local businesses are leveraging the "ticket root economy," offering discounts and promotions linked to concert attendance, such as dining discounts at nearby restaurants [10][11]. - The concert's popularity is expected to drive a surge in transportation, accommodation, dining, and shopping, showcasing the economic impact of high-profile events on urban areas [10][11]. Group 2: Fan Engagement and Attendance - The concert implemented strict ticketing policies, requiring real-name registration and identity verification to enhance security and prevent ticket scalping [6][7]. - Many fans, including those without tickets, attended the concert venue to show support, indicating strong fan engagement and community involvement [7][10]. - Special waiting areas were designated for parents accompanying underage fans, reflecting an understanding of the demographic attending the concert [6][7]. Group 3: Idol Economy and Business Model - The Times Youth League, developed by Times Fengjun, follows a successful idol cultivation model, building on the popularity of previous groups like TFBOYS [13][14]. - The agency employs a comprehensive star-making industry chain, from talent selection to training and performance planning, to maximize commercial opportunities [14]. - The focus on male idol groups is strategic, as they tend to attract more female fans who are more likely to spend on related products and experiences, enhancing overall revenue potential [14].