Post 7: He's my Hero!

Since we were all still young, by the time the internet is not yet that popular, we still read a lot of books, newspapers, magazines, and our favorite are Comics. Don't you remember the old days when there is still 'Justice League' on TV, or any boy in the market wants to buy a copy of a new kind of Marvel related comics? Well, until today, there are still some who buy these comic books in stores. There are also fans who collects, or are still fan of their favorite heroes living in the fictional world.

Comic book fans are also passionate about what they are reading. It's similar to those who read manga (Japanese Comics) and book novel series. An article, The Sense of Ownership, written by Vaneta Rogers, have said that they fans are somehow affected by the characters presented in the comic.

"Attachment to characters can cause some fans to have a sense of ownership over how that world is treated. There are some hardcore fans who can get very upset if changes are made to the characters they love."

Anyone can be affected by the character of the book they are reading. It could be a hero, a cool teenage guy, vampire, fallen angel, anything. But the thing here is, some fans tend to get upset if changes are made. Well, it depends on the story. Any kind of comic book publishes once the story of that particular volume is finished, then it goes to the artists, the ones who drew the characters. The author is the one controlling the comic book that you read.

What the article points out is that, don't be too attached. Anything is possible since they are fictional characters and you could just imagine yourself being with them in their world. Don't blame anyone, and don't get upset if they made few changes about the story or the character you love. It would be like in real life. Things happen. There would always be cases that fans would compare the old work to the new ones, but take it as a complement. If they like it, then it's good. If they don't, it could be a big motivation to the creators and they can make a better one next time they publish the new series.

Lastly, Brevoort pointed out in the article, "Fans do not own these characters, and if they stick around long enough as a reader, something that happens to their favorite character is going to be the opposite of what they want. And that's when potential problems arise." As a story goes on, there would be a lot of changes. Some fans may complain, but as stated, they do not own the characters. To me, they could have their own opinions rather than complaining it. The creators are the ones who are affected because of this. They are also doing their best to make or continue a good comic book that fans are dying to read.

There are instances that fans enjoy reading comics or books more, rather than seeing it in a movie. There could also be fanfictions made by fans that the characters of the original has different roles in their own way. Some tend to let it stay in their minds and imagine big. Fans really do matter. They are the reason the creators kept on releasing new comics. It is simply because there is someone out there who likes my works. Even though some fans complain, the creators always think of them in any work they do. Because the comics they create, is also for them.

Post 6: The Social Media Age

Any artist gains a lot of fans on every new release of their album or music video. Since most of them have already spent the previous years with their fans through fanmeetings or fansigning events, they have the opportunity to meet with their fans, and most fans could meet their idols in more than one event. Fans won't be able to know these schedules unless they have updates with the help of social media. It could be Facebook, Twitter, a Fansite, Tublr, and many more. Soshified, an International Fansite for fans of Girls' Generation tackles about Fandom once more, The Sone Fandom in Social Media Age. This particular article is not only about sones, it's for fans all over the world. It was written by michaelroni, and he said:

"Fandoms are not defined by numbers of famous names; they are defined by the relationships between fans and the artists, as well as between fans themselves. Few relationships last forever, but every friendship leaves an impact that people remember for the rest of their lives."

Because of today's social media age, it was said in the article that friendship between fans are created, groups, pages, and many more. There have been instances that they role play, play games, chat with each other and spazz about their favorite OTPs or biases. Anything is possible online. Most people barely knew each other in real life because they only have the opportunity to talk with each other online. They unite together and this is one of the things that makes fandom stronger. 

In such cases, social media helps every individual to be visible in the world of fandom. Fans will not miss any minute of the day, not knowing their idol's updates in fancam, self camera pictures, live performance, interviews, or even concerts in selected countries. Without social media, they won't know any of this. Most of them probably have a folder or more of their idol's photos, and save another photo for each new update. Even myself, I got about 60 folders of pictures of SNSD. People think that I'm now really obsessed with these girls and I'm like a stalker. The truth is, I'm not. Most fans would consider it as a habit and it's not strange at all. To normal people, yes, but when it comes to other fellow fans, they would be amazed and excited about it.

"No one ever truly leaves the fandom."

Basically, it's actually true. Once you have been a fan of that idol, even though they disband or he/she doesn't remain an artist anymore, you are still a fan. Being a fan is also a big part of our lives. It's similar to a story from a book. There always been an ending towards the end, but you will always remember it or treasure it. Fandom unites the fans and the idols as one. Antis have been spreading throughout the internet as well, but because there are fans, the idols won't entertain them because they still have someone who looks up to them and supports them no matter what happens. There is that special bond that other people will not understand between the fans and idols. They are like family, together until the very end. Like other idols might say, "Let's be together even though we are already old." And as long as they know that the fans remember them, the same goes for them. Every fan is in the heart of any artist. Social media is a part of fandom so they can spazz, be together in groups, and another new friendship will build between fans, no matter what country they come from.

Post 5: Korean Invasion

Ever since Korean Dramas were released in the previous years, people have been interested about it. An increase number of people watched the shows, or even buy their own copy of CDs. Yet, a couple of companies in Seoul were having their auditions and years of training for their soon-to-be stars in the near future. I came across with the article, 10 Reasons Why the KPOP Fandom is not like the rest, written by Victoria Huynh. Since then, every group has debuted back in the early 20's. They are first known in certain parts in Seoul, to Asia, and now, they are known worldwide.

In recent events, even the past year, most Korean groups have traveled in popular parts in USA. Like SM Entertainment for example, they had their own concert in New York last 2012 and it was one of their most unbelievable and unforgettable experience ever. They didn't expect that huge number of fans will attend the tour since they are from South Korea. But this is not only in the USA. They are known in every part of the world.

Which part of this is unique and different about KPOP compared to other international artists? Similar to what the article have said, KPOP is indeed a unique world compared to the rest. I'll start off with their fans-- it's true that their fans also have names like V.I.P, Sones, Shawols, ELF, and many more. They have these different colors to represent themselves. Yellow, Pink, Green, Blue... Once you are outside, inside, or above the venue of that particular concert, you will be amazed on how beautiful those light sticks are as they glow all throughout the night. Other things that their fans do is, fan chants. This is not similar to chants that cheerleaders used to yell; fan chants are often studied well. It must have the correct beat and timing. It was something that gives the Korean artists the courage to have an outstanding performance on stage because you're cheering them on. Yelling their names or their group's tagline.

Next about the fans is when a group made a comeback, prepare your money, your light sticks, or even your phones. Expect a big album launch on stores, and selling merchandises because you might spend your money because of it. Fans always looks after every comeback they have. Merchandises includes caps they used on stage, dolls, pillows, signed posters, bags, anything you can imagine. That's why other fans are lucky that they live in Korea or can travel and go there just to buy these things. They are also lucky enough if they can attend a fansigning event in a mall and meet their idols in person. Imagine them looking and smiling back at you!

In concerts, they also have official photographers. It's not similar to paparazzi. They have plenty of photos of the artists individually organized by member or event. They will keep you updates on what show they are in, which airport did they arrived, pictures from their concert in a certain country, and many more. Most of them would even release a photo book for fans to keep, and it includes photos of that particular member for the whole year.

Fans also have fansites and it is present in any country. They give fans updates, reviews, news, and even gatherings. Most fansites have a fan gathering for a celebration, a member's birthday for an example. Things like that could melt your heart because even though the idol is far away, they will still celebrate his/her birthday anyway. Fansites also sends gifts or even packages during a comeback, birthday, or a group's anniversary. And most likely, it is from fans all over the world. They give suggestions, send donations, send messages, buy gifts, create fanmade video for them, all the little things that a fan can do but, a big thing in their idol's hearts.

Second is Korean Dramas. Because KPOP groups has already been known, fans look up to their upcoming projects. If they know that the member will participate in a drama, in any genre it is, they will really look forward in watching it. Korean sites are available in the internet so most of them can watch online. They won't miss a single episode of it and watch it until the end.

Lastly, is even fans are not Korean, they still love KPOP music. Most people don't rely on the lyrics, it depends on the person who is listening. Some because of the dance, the lyrics, or the rhythm. If the song is catchy from the very first part, then most likely, they will listen to the whole song. And Korean fans are loyal and very courageous. They will do anything for their idols and there will be no minute of the day that they won't be thinking about them or singing along with their songs. Korean artists also have this love that cannot be explained through words. Deep inside them, they appreciate every single thing a fan does for them.

Chapter 1: Introduction (Draft)

Background of the Study

Around the world, there has been a huge society known as Fandom. It was certainly known as a group of fans who are united as one for the artist they support. Most fans will do anything and everything they can just to show their love and support. This includes going to concerts, buying their albums, attending mall shows and musicals, buying merchandises, voting in hit charts, and represent them by cosplay or doing covers. Throughout the years, fandom has become a serious topic among citizens as well as the idols themselves. It has been spreading out throughout the nation and the number of fans continues to increase every year.

   Since the society have observed that the people who participate in fandom may be exceeding their limits, a member of a girl group from South Korea, Girls’ Generation, Tiffany once said during their fan meeting in New York, “I think being a Sone (the name of their fans) is harder than being a Girls’ Generation member.” Fans also have their own decisions. Some artists thought of them as “crazy good” people because they are inspired and willing to achieve their goals because of them. Some fans may only be joining up the group, but most of them, their love for the idol is sincere. There had been instances that they were able to have a motivation thanks to the idols. (via youtube video source)

   In recent news about fans, they represent themselves as a fan of that particular idol by having a name. Such as Justin Bieber fans as Beliebers, Girls’ Generation fans are called Sones or Directioners for One Direction. Because of this, they are known to the society and most likely, different activities are present. Unlike before, artists have said that counted number of fans only attends their mall shows, compared to present, fans will frequently attend these events unexpectedly. Some fans would travel around the world for them and if they have enough money, they might treat their idols in that specific place. Anything is possible as long as the fans remain loyal and supportive to their idols. Some idols may be hard to be friends with, but without fans knowing, deep inside them, they really want to.

   When it comes to the fandom that spreads out in the Philippines, similar to international artists, local fans would give all their effort for their idols. Since fandom is now known worldwide, Filipino fans are really loyal and lovable to their idols. Nationality is the least important thing when it comes to fandom. In result to this, different fansites are born for fans so they could communicate with each other and continue to update each other about their idols. Even if their idol is in another country or a foreigner, they will organize an event or a gathering wherein fans may be able to attend, an example of this are conventions. This includes, Anime Conventions, KPOP Conventions, Cosplay, and many more.

   Because of this behavior, a lot of citizens would think that fans might be going too far. There is a possibility that they have been spending more time in talking about these idols or watching their videos online rather than doing their daily tasks. Since most fans are teenagers, even the idols themselves are worried. In spite the difficulties of being a fan, they are still there for the idol and yet they will not give up their support. What the society really trying to point out to people is that, they need to balance their activities. Do not let the fandom take over their real life. It is good to know that there are people who admire a person or a character and some of them, they might create a room full of collection of different posters and merchandises but, there will always be a limit in anything a person does.

   Like what has been already stated, there is a limit in anything we do. Yet, there are fans that may be really exceeding the boundaries between them and their idol. People know that a lot of fans are inspired by this idols and they are their source of inspiration, but do not exceed to the point of invading their personal lives or privacy. If that happens, there may be a possibility that they will not be able to perform well on stage or issues may continue to spread. There have been also cases that fans of different idols have encountered arguments about certain issues or news, such as relationships between idols, their impressions in interviews, and others. This results to rumors that antis used to tell. Therefore, to keep things in an organized manner, fans should still consider their limits and what a psychologist have said, “Try to attend other important matters.”

   Since the world of fandom continues to become a serious topic among citizens, this study focuses on the wide culture of fandom; particularly the boundaries in how far should they go.

B. Statement of the Problem

   This study have explored different aspects and activities of fans in any part of the globe, it could be international or local fans. With this, the readers might be able to learn the thing what fans truly feels about the person they idolize. Since a lot of news about fandom have been catching the attention of the citizens and most likely, they are interested if fandom is similar to obsession or the opposite.

The study therefore addressed the question:

What are the boundaries of being a fan?

C. Significance of the Study

   This study aims to relate the benefits of fans to idols. Most of them have said that without the fans, then they would not be popular or their fame would not increase. Fandom may have a different appearance to the society but it allows someone to express himself. Being a fan does not only mean that one is supporting the idol, it was much more than that. It was already said that being a fan is harder than being an artist, which is because they are the ones who spends their time for that particular person and spending amount of money to buy their merchandises, and worse is they defend for the idols themselves.

Its value can be extended through the following:

·         Society

   Many people have been writing posts in their blogs, especially when it comes to social media. Since it has been part of the industry, this information might be a good source for them. This does not only include fans that are willing to read updates and other series of events about the artists, it is also for the antis as well. If there are fans of that particular artist, expect that there would also be an anti. Everyone may have their different opinions in certain things but because of the affection or reaction of the fans, it sometimes results to different conclusions.

·         Teenagers

   The only common thing when it comes to most teenage fans would be “fangirling”. When it comes to male idols, a big percentage of fans are females. The information they need can also be a big help for their own research and other school-related things. Fangirling is only a term used for fans who really love these male artists or fictional characters; it does not show any kind of bad influence. With this, they could come up with the idea that this kind of activity is not that harmful or subjected to obsession; unless the fans will really do something inappropriate.

·         Reporters/ Writers

   Since many people make news or blogs as their main source of information, in this study, it would be the other way around. Writers would write the information they gathered from different sources such as interviews, photos, or video materials, with this study, they can also gather more information about what fandom is really about. It would not only focus on what they have seen through actions around the idols, or what incident a certain fan did in a place, this study might guide them in what particular things a fan would really do for their idols.

·         Parents

   Most parents might be worried about their child’s performance. It could be in school, or other curricular activities that their participation in fandom might affect.  This type of research can be a good example of information they need for them to know what their sons/daughters feel inside.  Maybe half percentage of parents supports their sons/daughter’s likes in certain things because it is something that would make them happy and comfortable.  This study might help them gain more information on why their children support so much and what kind of impact has it caused in their lives.

D. Scope and Limitations

    This study focuses on the culture of fandom, mainly in the activities that fans attend to or attempt to do. Since fandom has been a big part of the society these days, it has its misunderstandings. Obsession has also been considered as a similarity in being fandom among idols. Therefore, this study also aims to provide significant information about what fandom really means to fans themselves.

E. Materials and Methods

   This study contains different articles related to the Culture of Fandom in the society. The researcher’s aim is to discuss the effects of fandom to people and their devotion, as well as its limits between them and the idol’s private personal life. Further information will be gathered and explained in the study to guide the readers and to widen their knowledge about the topic.

   The information has been gathered from different references, such as news, TV debate program, and online articles. However, a survey will be conducted regarding fandom and further information will be added to broaden the findings of this study.

F. Definition of Terms

devotion - the act of devoting; love; fondness; affection; passion

cosplay - a kind of performance art wherein participants tend to role play to represent a specific character or person

sincerity - the quality or state of being sincere

boundary - something that indicates a limit or extent

obsession - a persistent disturbing preoccupation with often an unreasonable idea or feeling

influence  - the power of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways
inspiration - the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions 
private - belonging to or concerning an individual person, company, or interest

Outline

Topic

Fandom: Is it for Reel or for Real?

I. What it's like to be a Fan

II. The Culture of Fandom

      A. Escape from reality

           - Fanfictions

           - OTP (One True Pairing)

      B. Activities

          - Fangirling

          - Collection of Merchandises

          - Cosplay

          - Covers

      C. Korean Fandom Invasion

      D. Dangerous Acts

           - Invasion of Privacy

           - Pros and Cons

           - Die Hard Fans by Psychologists

      E. Affection

          - Devotion

          - Social Media

          - Sense of Ownership

Statement of the Problem:

What is the Culture of Fandom?

Post 4: A Priceless Support

1D collection by Bianca Taguba

A lot of fans must be wondering, "How am I going to support my favorite artists?" Whether they will buy their idol's albums and other merchandises, it all depends if they have enough budget for it. Some even tend to save money from their daily budget so they can buy these merchandises and start to collect it. This comes to The Price of Fandom, this is an article written by SNSDave, a member of the internation fansite, Soshified. He also stated that:

"They all made their decisions based on what they felt would be best for them as a fan, and that's something we can't really dictate that others do as well. It's a decision that can only be made by ourselves."

As a fan, we all want to do whatever it takes just to support our favorite artists. Others would even go to the exclusive events, mall shows, fansigning events, or if ever, some would even travel to another country where the artist will have a concert. Fans have their own decisions; it's also their happiness that pertains here. They would by expensive albums and collect them from their debut until present, or buy their favorite stuff toys and such. But, what about the people that can't even afford to buy these things? The less fortunate? The kids who rely on their parent's allowance just to ask them buy the stuff they want? Well, just because you can't buy these material things doesn't mean you don't support the artists. Because of course, fans really do support them. And it's in their heart how much they want to have these things because it would be a big deal and memorable for them.

During the hit charts, International Awards, Music Awards, because Social Networking have become a big source of information and become popular to citizens nowadays, most fans tend to vote every single day for their favorite artists to stay on top. It includes iTunes, most viewed music videos on Youtube, or for yearly awards, they vote so they can win the "Best Album/Artist/Song of the Year" Award. All of those things are the little things a fan can do for the ones they truly look up to. To other people, it might be weird or they might think that they are going too far, but for the idols themselves, they truly appreciate it and they are thankful. Without them, they won't reach the fame as their main goal from the start.

Photo by: KC@soshified.com

As days come and go, fandom will grow and merchandises and albums will continue to release. It may seem weird for other people if they see someone's room filled with large posters of the artists, but to the fans, it's an honor. They are doing the best they can to support them. And another thing is, if they don't buy these merchandise, do you think the artists might stop releasing them? Definitely, yes. Because it will result that no one likes it. That's why for them, it's a big pleasure. Some artists may be having a hard time expressing their feelings towards fans on how much they appreciate their support, but deep down inside, they are really thankful. The only way to reward the kind of support and kindness of the fans is to release better songs, something that will not disappoint the fans, and they will be a better artist that the fans will be proud of.

Lightning (Final Fantasy XIII-2) Cosplay by Jovi

The same goes for Cosplaying. It doesn't only symbolize fictional characters in Anime, but also artists in real life too. Many cosplayers go to exclusive events that are held many part of the year and some of them go to Cosplay battles. Unlike the others who buy material things, they represent. This is no ordinary dress up that kids used to do; cosplaying is a different thing. When it comes to real people, there goes Cover dancers, like Korean Artists for example. I myself is also a cover dancer and I dance cover three artist group from SM Entertainment. These are added up to the things that fans do to support the people or characters they love; not just by buying certain things. It may cost them money because of the costume and all, but that's how they will represent it. And like what is mentioned earlier, it's a decision that is made by themselves.

A note, there will be no material thing that can equal or measure a Fan's heart. Once they are a fan of that artist, even if time goes by, they will be still a fan. And they will treasure each moment that they are a fan of that artist because they will remember how much impact it caused ever since they've known them. It doesn't matter if the artist is a girl or boy, same as it doesn't matter if you're a fangirl or fanboy, what matters is how much you care because to most fans, these artists have become part of their lives. Don't let other people judge you by the material things you buy and the collection you're trying to build, it's what you like to do. And fans won't let these little things slip out, because  they will always be there for the person no matter what.