[Last modified: November, 4 2024 12:33 AM]
My recent research project is exploring fan-made dolls of Korean idols within Chinese fan culture, there are embedded political dimensions that relate to identity, consumerism, and emotional relationships within the context of globalization. The project examines how these dolls, representing Korean idols, serve as conduits for emotional connection and identity formation among fans, but this phenomenon also intersects with political questions around cultural appropriation, soft power, and the commercialization of fan identities. As these dolls are modeled after Korean celebrities and consumed within China, this cross-cultural engagement reflects the broader dynamics of Korean pop culture’s influence as a “soft power” tool. This has left many Chinese fans with doubts about their loyalty to their country, some stuffy people think that this is a lack of confidence to their own culture.
My own positionality as a fan of Korean idols impacts the project’s political dimensions. Being immersed in this community, I am sympathetic to the emotional connections fans form with their idols and dolls, which may lead me to focus on positive aspects and overlook potentially problematic elements, such as the commodification of emotional connections or the reinforcement of particular gendered expectations within fan culture. My assumption that fans primarily carry these dolls for emotional comfort may bias the project towards interpreting this activity as personal rather than as politically or commercially influenced. Recognizing this bias encourages me to approach the research with a critical eye on how fan practices may be influenced by or resist commercial and cultural pressures.
Politically, my findings could highlight both the empowerment of fans through creative expression and the potential for commercialization to shape and exploit fan identities. If I focus solely on the positive aspects, there is a risk of inadvertently supporting the commodification of intimate experiences, reinforcing the idea that emotional fulfillment can and should be bought. To navigate these implications, my methods need to incorporate reflexivity, ensuring I account for diverse fan experiences and recognize instances where fans may resist commercialization. Additionally, exploring varying interpretations and avoiding homogenized conclusions about why fans engage with these dolls will add depth to the analysis.
In terms of ethical adaptation, I should prioritize the anonymity and agency of participants, particularly if discussing political and economic influences on their identities. By presenting a nuanced picture that recognizes both empowering and commercial aspects, my research can contribute responsibly to discussions about fan culture, emotional consumption, and the political influence of cross-cultural fandom, ultimately providing insights that respect fans’ autonomy while acknowledging the broader implications of their choices.