Hit by the Wave: K-pop in Norway, its characteristics, community, and its place in the lives of Norwegian K-pop fans

Abstract

This qualitative study delves into the K-pop fandom in Norway, seeking to explore its cultural underpinnings and social significance. Beginning with an exploration into the origins and contemporary landscape of K-pop, the research centers around semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted with eight participants. Through a comparative analysis investigating reoccurring themes across these interviews, this thesis aims to ascertain the characteristics of the Norwegian K-pop fandom. Drawing upon a wide scope of literature on subculture, youth culture, fandom culture, and internet culture, this thesis explores the varying trajectories fans have into the fandom, their reasoning for remaining in the fandom, how they derive meaning from their fan affiliation, and finally, their stylistic elements and social practices. In the discussion, this thesis explores how the perspectives outlined in the selected literature contribute to understanding this fandom, aiming to illuminate the multifaceted identity and impact of K-pop fandom within the Norwegian context.