The nexus of fandom and modernity in the identity construction of komuniti K-popers Pekanbaru

Abstract

It is apparent that the K-Pop phenomenon has found its niches rather comfortably in nation-states of the Malay Nusantara which is rooted in predominantly Islamic civilizational cultures. The paper focuses on the impact of K-Pop fandom of the fans through an ethnographic study in Pekanbaru, Indonesia. Based on Parasocial Relationship and Interaction concept, this paper discussed the implication of fandom as a form of modernity which comes with the formation of new identity as Komuniti K-Popers Pekanbaru. The ethnographic findings show a sustained and systematic parasocial intimacy despite the negative criticisms from the society. It appears that that parasocial interactions and relationships are responsible in fostering and shaping a K-Pop fandom community that organizes itself around its own vision and capability to adapt positively against the impact of cultural globalisation. By implications, an approach can be seen as a manifestation of modernity which is derived from the attitude, ethos and norms of modern-day humanity, for it is not simply a hedonistic quest per se. In actual fact, the community has also demonstrated its capacity and maturity to negotiate the dual identities as both Pekanbaru youths and K-Pop fans by engaging in economic, entrepreneurial and charitable social work which are reflexive and impactful. In conlusion, the construction of K-Pop fandom community in the Malay Nusantara involves the negotiation of Nusantara-ness, which means, seeking a sense of identity that is balanced and nuanced with local socioculturality. A challenge like the modernity of a fandom that is pragmatic, responsive and versatile is what Komuniti K-Popers Pekanbaru have yet to overcome.