<![CDATA[Purpose − The phenomenon of fandom on social media demonstrates that fans not only support their idols but also actively respond to narratives perceived as detrimental to their idols’ public image. Within the JKT48 fan community on Twitter, such responses may escalate into hate speech when certain accounts are perceived as attacking, belittling, or negatively portraying the members. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the forms of hate speech expressed by JKT48 fans toward the @idolpolice_ account on Twitter and to explain the factors underlying the emergence of such expressions. Method − This study employed a qualitative research method with a netnographic approach. Data were collected from comments on posts published by the @idolpolice_ account and through semi-structured interviews with seven JKT48 fans. The data were analyzed using thematic coding to categorize forms of hate speech and interpret the social and emotional motives underlying fans’ responses. Findings − The findings reveal five forms of hate speech: insults, defamation, offensive conduct, provocation or incitement, and sarcastic remarks. The underlying factors include perceptions of negative framing, emotional attachment to one’s oshi (favorite idol), empathy toward the members, differing perceptions of the boundaries between criticism and personal attacks, accumulated frustration, emotional venting, and the desire to exert social pressure. Fanaticism in defending idols is not inherently negative; however, it becomes problematic when it crosses the boundaries of ethical communication.]]>
