K-pop Fan Perceptions and Negotiation of Alternative Forms of Masculinities

Abstract

The unexpected surge of K-pop and Korean pop culture, particularly in the United States, has sparked growing interest in fandom studies, which increasingly documents K-pop fans’ nuanced awareness and prospects for breaking down cultural barriers. This study contributes to the growing Hallyu literature by examining the gender perspectives of American K-pop fans regarding the masculinities performed by K-pop male idols. Based on the original data collected through a large online survey (N = 920) and in-depth interviews (N = 110), our research addresses the ongoing discourse surrounding K-pop’s potential to expand conceptions of masculinities. Our findings suggest that, at least among fans, exposure to and engagement with K-pop have the potential to reevaluate the narrow criteria underpinning traditional masculinities and engender acceptance of alternative forms of masculinities.