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].