Session Name: Social Media and Autonomy in Indonesia
3 - Identity and Fandom: Parasocial Interactions among Indonesian BTS Fans in the Age of Social Media
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
14:00 – 15:45 (GMT+7)
Presentation Abstract This study focuses on BTS fans’ interactions on social media, exploring how they express their support and admiration, and build loyalty through digital platforms. This research provides insight into fandom and culture studies in the development of society in the age of social media. Data are collected through participant observation into fans social lives and social media activities as well as indepth interviews to get how they interact with their idols through digital platforms. The paper shows that parasocial interactions occur between fans and idols. The development of social media has made it easier for public figures as well as their fans to conduct parasocial interactions in which fans construct their social and cultural identity with values or characteristics associated with their idols.
Co-Author 1 Anton Novenanto, Universitas Brawijaya
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