[Last modified: October, 20 2024 10:35 PM]
- Research Topic
My research focuses on how fans of Korean idols interact with fan-made idol dolls and how these dolls provide psychological and physical comfort. I aim to explore the dolls’ agency and understand whether fans view them as objects or representations of their idols. I also intend to challenge the stereotype that dolls are primarily for children, investigating how adult fans engage with them in emotionally meaningful ways. Through this study, I hope to uncover the broader implications of how these dolls function as both material culture and emotional companions.
- The Reason This Research Interests Me
As a fan of Korean idols myself, I have a personal connection to this topic. I own several idol dolls and brought them to the UK. These dolls play an important role in my life as decorations, toys, and emotional comfort items. My own experiences with these dolls naturally led me to this research topic, giving me a strong sense of empathy and understanding toward other fans who engage with them. My own involvement also makes this research especially meaningful, as it allows me to explore the various ways fans like me relate to these objects.
- Preconceived Ideas
While I feel connected to this topic, I also recognize that my personal experiences may lead to certain biases. For instance, I sometimes view fans who always carry their dolls as overly attached or “crazy”. As I mentioned and emphasized the emotional support these dolls provide, I need to remain aware that not all fans may use the dolls in the same way. Emotional comfort may not be the primary reason everyone engages with these dolls, and I must remain open to discovering different motivations and perspectives throughout my research.
- Reflections on Reflexivity
As a researcher, my positionality—being a fan of a particular Korean boy group—may influence my findings. My research participants are likely to share similar fan experiences, which could result in a sample that lacks diversity, especially in terms of gender, as many fans might be women. This could skew my interpretations toward gendered notions such as maternal instincts or romantic desire. Additionally, my own assumptions about how and why fans engage with idol dolls could shape my analysis. Therefore, I need to practice reflexivity, constantly reflecting on how my own position, values, and experiences might impact my research and remaining open to diverse perspectives that challenge my initial assumptions.