Fandom: Beautiful Colors

Fandom is a general term referring to people who share a passion for a particular person or field. In South Korea, when people think of fandom, they immediately think of the communities of fans of idols.

Idol fandoms were once criticized as "a deviant, blind adoration" of teenagers. However, over time, fandoms have gradually shown many positive aspects. "Fandom culture" is increasingly respected. Fandom is a personal hobby that brings benefits to young people such as improving personal relationships, reducing stress, and creating opportunities to participate in volunteer activities...

Spreading fandom culture

Previously, fans could only follow celebrities on TV or text to request their favorite songs. Now, with the popularity of social media, fans have a platform to communicate and exchange ideas seriously. Fandoms create opportunities to nurture precious memories and express the vibrant energy of youth in a healthy way.

Technological advancements have made it easier to connect and form global fandoms with more diverse activities. When people from all over the world come together through shared interests, a foundation for understanding and respect is formed. Beyond the basic meaning of loving the stars, the voices of individuals have expanded to many other areas. Doan Thuc (from Dong Nai), an "ARMY" (fandom of the K-pop group BTS), said: "We help and support each other as a community with shared goals and values. When interacting with people from many countries, I gradually developed an interest in their music , movies, history, and society. This is not just entertainment, but it has even changed the way we see the world."

Fandom activities stem from voluntarism and enthusiasm. With clear direction and a spirit of collaboration and sharing, fandoms make practical contributions to the community. When major events occur, fandoms often proactively gather, prepare for the event, and raise funds. A culture of working well with idols also takes root. Fandoms not only demonstrate their affection but also affirm their maturity through valuable actions.

The first house in the "Build Houses for Children" charity series under the name of Super Junior by VSJ Station - Vietnam ELF Fanpage. Photo: VSJ STATION - VIETNAM ELF FANPAGE

Contributing to society

Many charitable projects are carried out in the name of the idol. For example, in December 2022, before Ha Anh Tuan's birthday, fans in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City organized a blood donation drive. This heartwarming gesture brought the singer much joy as he celebrated his new age. Later, during his "Brilliant Horizon" concert in February 2023, Ha Anh Tuan announced his support for the "As If There Had Never Been a Separation" program. His "Friend Club" then followed suit, raising additional funds for the program. Fans stand by Ha Anh Tuan not only for his music but also as a small part of a larger mission. "When pain awakens compassion and a desire to share and offer support, that's when sound becomes music," Ha Anh Tuan wrote on his personal page.

A thank you message from the "As If There Had Never Been a Separation" team to singer Ha Anh Tuan and Friendclub.

The Vietnamese fandom of Vietnamese-born idol Hanbin - Ngo Ngoc Hung (member of the group TEMPEST) is very active. Notable projects include the "Building Happy Homes with Hanbin" project, which built two houses for orphaned students in Gia Lai and Yen Bai provinces with 160 million VND; supported the planting of 1,000 trees in Ben En National Park (Thanh Hoa province); provided funding for cleft lip and palate surgery for children; supported the "Nurturing Children" project; and donated lunch to underprivileged workers. This fandom also adopted dolphins and black-footed cats from the International Organization for Nature Conservation in the idol's name.

Speaking of social activities, it's impossible not to mention ELF (Super Junior's fandom). Last August, the summary of the construction of the first house in the "Building Houses for Children" charity series under the name of Super Junior by the VSJ Station - Vietnam ELF fanpage touched the hearts of fans. This charity house is part of the "DElight comes in delight" project welcoming members Donghae and Eunhyuk to Vietnam. After completing the first house in Kon Tum, the VSJ Station - Vietnam ELF fanpage will continue to build more houses.

Choi Si-won (back row, fourth from the right) had a meaningful time in Vietnam as UNICEF Ambassador for East Asia and the Pacific. Photo: UNICEF VIET NAM

In mid-October, singer-actor Choi Si-won visited Vietnam as a UNICEF Ambassador for the East Asia-Pacific region and reunited with fans as a member of Super Junior at the WOW K-Music Festival in Ho Chi Minh City. During the events welcoming their idol, through the two fan pages Choi Royal and Siwon's Girlfriend, Choi Si-won's fans sent donations to UNICEF Vietnam, hoping to contribute to positive change for children alongside him. Misa (a resident of Ho Chi Minh City), a die-hard fan, shared: "As fans, we are happy to see our idol working hard and becoming famous, but above all, we are happy to see us motivating each other, striving to improve ourselves and contributing to society together."

Source: https://nld.com.vn/thoi-su/fandom-nhung-gam-mau-dep-2023102822100311.htm