[Music] [Applause] When the lights turned off, the crowd erupted into screams and sobs. The dancers and band took their places on stage. People frantically pulled out their cameras while others decided to live in the moment. The concert was at Sofi Stadium with its open roof letting in the cool night air. The smell of popcorn and nachos filled my senses. The stage lights flashed on temporarily blinding me. My mom was filming me, which at the time annoyed me. But looking back, I'm glad that she did. And then ...

Parasocial Relationships & K-pop - The industry views K-pop idols not just as musicians, but as figures with a broader influence, shaping parasocial relationships [4] - Digital inclusion breaks down geographical and social barriers, amplifying fandom and transforming fans into active participants [9] - Digital platforms foster "one and a half parasocial relationships," where idols engage with fans' opinions, strengthening participation and recognition [10][11][12] - Idols can be seen as elements of cultural hybridity, with loyalty preferred in collectivist cultures and self-reflection in individualistic ones [12][13] - Mirror neurons facilitate emotional impact on both fans and idols, integrating into various concepts [14] - Repetitive interactions can evolve into parasocial relationships, offering support, security, and escape from stressful situations [15][16] - Fans actively engage in mental games, enriching their inner world, similar to dynamics in real-life relationships [19] - Fans contribute to creating idols' identities by analyzing and disseminating personal stories, supporting monetary gain and coping mechanisms [22][23] - K-pop is a semiotic system offering a complex experience beyond music, including choreography and hidden meanings for fans to decipher [24][25] - Parasocial interactions can lead to maladaptive behaviors if individuals detach from reality and idealize the parasocial layer [28]

Fandom & Community - Fandom provides a sense of belonging and community, especially for marginalized groups like people of color, queer individuals, youth, chronically ill, disabled, homebound individuals, and those in rural environments [2] - Online fandom allows individuals to express themselves and connect with others who share their interests, transcending geographical limitations [1][2][3] - Fandom fosters real-life connections and friendships, leading to support networks and enriching experiences [2][3] Social Perception of Fandom - Entertainment fandom is often ridiculed and not given the same respect as sports fandom, despite its positive impact on marginalized communities [1][2] - Society tends to critique entertainment fans while celebrating sports fans, even though both exhibit similar levels of passion [1][2] Impact of Internet & Fandom - The internet and fandom have profoundly impacted the speaker's life, shaping their identity and providing a sense of community [3] - Online interactions and shared stories within fandom can bring people together, regardless of their differences [3]