Kanal : Jurnal Ilmu Komunikasi
Vol. 15 No. 1 (2026): September

K-pop Fandom Culture NCT in Social Media X: Netnografi of Communication, Interaction and online identity: Budaya Fandom K-pop NCT di Media Sosial X: Netnografi Komunikasi, Interaksi dan Identitas online

Tri Rahmadani (Program Studi Ilmu Komunikasi, Universitas Garut)
Zikri Fachrul Nurhadi (Program Studi Ilmu Komunikasi, Universitas Garut)
Yandi Hermawandi (Program Studi Ilmu Komunikasi, Universitas Garut)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Sep 2026

Abstract

Social media platform X has become a primary space for K-Pop fans to build their culture, but understanding of online identity, digital interactions, and fandom dynamics on the platform remains limited. The purpose of this study is to explain K-Pop fandom culture on social media platform X in these three aspects. The study used a qualitative approach with netnography methods. Data collection techniques included online observation, virtual interviews (direct messages and voice calls on X), online literature review, and online documentation (screenshots). Five informants (active fans, base admins, AU authors, PC collectors) were selected, with criteria of at least one year of active time on X and daily interaction intensity. The results of the study reveal three main findings. First, online identity is constructed through profile elements as a statement of fandom affiliation, with anonymity as a protective strategy and a space for authentic expression. Second, digital interactions are stratified between public (reply) and private (DM) spaces based on context. Third, fandom dynamics reflect a mature community through collective practices (streaming parties, hashtags), a trust-based economic ecosystem (photocard trading), and self-regulatory mechanisms such as fanwar avoidance and distributed governance.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

kanal

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

Aim: to facilitate scholar, researchers, and teachers for publishing the original articles of review articles. Scope: Communication Science include: Interpersonal Communication Mass Communication Politics Communication Development Communication Communication Media Culture Communication Business ...