The Influences of K-pop Fandom on Increasing Cultural Contact : With the Case of Philippine Kpop Convention, Inc.

The Korean Wave could be rapidly spread by the participation of its fans in the world, and social network service became a common communication medium of the fans. The recipients of the Korean Wave build a fandom based on their play culture. This research aims to emphasize the participatory efforts of K-pop fandom for enabling to rethink the Korean Wave’s value and for increasing cultural contact between their local areas and Korea beyond supporting K-pop idols. With the case of the Philippine Kpop Convention, Inc., this research discusses the meanings of fan activities promoting K-pop and Korean culture based on local cultural spirit, tolerance and reciprocity in the Philippines. To do so, this research conducts both a face to face interview with the three administrators of fan clubs and with one in the PKCI’s partner organization. In addition, a focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted with six people in the ages of 20s. The PKCI’s active participation is a key factor for developing the Korean Wave and for bridging social capitals. Person-to-person connections among local people can foster both a motivation to participate in Korean culture including K-pop and a favorability toward Korea. Thus, this study suggests to find a way of developing two-way communications between the Korean Wave receivers and Korean cultural industries.