Belonging & Identity: Anti-Racism through Global Exchange

One of the things I really love about being into K-pop is being part of something that’s a cultural phenomenon, with profound impact on global cultural exchange.  We all come to K-Pop with our own ideas based on our culture, but we’re teaching and learning through our common passion!

Beyond a Cultural Identity: Fandom

From a psychological perspective, K-Pop fandom can be seen as a form of shared social identity. Fans develop a strong sense of belonging and connection through their shared passion for K-Pop idols and music. This sense of community is amazing for increasing social cohesion and reducing prejudice.

My Global K-Pop Community

My adventures in K-Pop has shaped my understanding of cultures far beyond my own. And not just Korean culture! Swapping photocards, albums, and other collectibles with fans from around the globe has not only expanded my collection but also deepened my connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Through these exchanges with people from places like Germany, India, South Africa, I've learned about customs, traditions, and even slang from countries I've never visited.

Beyond trading, live K-Pop concerts have been unforgettable. Sharing a common passion with thousands of fans, many of whom don't speak the same language, has created a unique sense of unity. The energy and excitement at these events are contagious, and they serve as a reminder that music can transcend cultural barriers.

The Rise of K-Pop & Hallyu

The growth of K-pop has also created a surge in interest in Korean culture and language, driving tourism to South Korea. (Hallyu is the term used to describe the wave of South Korean culture that has gained global popularity, including K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean movies.)  It’s why I begged to visit Korea as a teenager, doing chores and odd jobs to help pay for it.  I practiced the language and learned the geography.  I learned about “aegyo” & kawaii culture –  love for all things cute and adorable. I learned how to order the most delicious foods I have never considered before. 

Reducing Asian Hate

I was too young to fully understand the gravity of anti-Asian sentiment and hate crimes when I first got into K-pop. But as these incidents became more prevalent, I felt a growing sense of allyship with the Asian community and found solace in the vibrant and inclusive world of K-pop. The music served as a bridge, connecting me with people from diverse backgrounds and fostering a deeper appreciation for Korean and other Asian cultures.

I am the last person you would call a “social justice warrior”!  But I found myself doing some bridge building, like very subtly confronting microaggressions and misconceptions about Asian culture.  I spent time educating my friends on the proper pronunciation of artists' names and engaging in classroom discussions about respect for many different Asian nationalities.  I found an odd connection to the AAPI community because of some of my own personal experiences.

My immigrant father was told to "go back to his country" while gardening on the front lawn. As a mixed-race Latina, I’ve been told I am not Latino enough to join certain activities.

All of these factors affected my interest in connecting with the AAPI community in my hometown. And K-pop allowed me to forge friendships across cultural lines and create a more inclusive environment in school.

A Cultural Catalyst

K-Pop has emerged as a powerful cultural catalyst, fostering global exchange, understanding, and social change. When you think of the psychological underpinnings of K-Pop fandom and its impact on global culture, it helps you appreciate the role of music and entertainment in shaping our world.