The influence of K-pop Thai fan loyalty on the image of Korean male idol: a case study of Lim Youngmin

Abstract

K-pop boyband artist AB6IX from South Korea, Lim Youngmin, has won the hearts of Thai fans that have developed into loyalness to him. However, Lim Youngmin has faced situations that affected the artist's idol image, and this resulted in the inability of performing as an artist in the meantime, from an incident in 2020, after being arrested for DUI - driving under the influence of alcohol. He had his driving license revoked in the same year which might force him to decide to enlist himself in the military, which is a requirement for all male citizens of South Korea without exception. All the situations fans have faced are proof that they are loyal fans and are satisfied by the activities that Lim Youngmin has accumulated thus having the confidence to support Lim Youngmin. Furthermore, this thesis will analyze the factors that affect the satisfaction of loyal fans through two methods. Firstly, an in-depth interview with two fans, namely a Twitter fan page administrator and a loyal fan of Youngmin for over five years. Secondly, by analyzing the results of the answers from a fan questionnaire taken by 400 people. This research is likely to open up more or less perspectives on fans' loyalty toward artists.