K-Pop culture can create a new internationalism—cultural studies prof
The rise of Korean pop (K-pop) boy group BTS has revealed a possible “new internationalism” as fans associate themselves with their idols while expressing their views on social issues, a cultural studies professor said.
Kyung Hee University professor Alex Taek-Gwang Lee said BTS member Park Jimin’s issue in Tokyo Dome proved the potential clout of the group’s fans who engage in social issues while promoting unity and belongingness.
“It would be true that BTS fans voluntarily participate in any social issue and a political agenda under the name of BTS supporters... They use BTS as a chance to practice global solidarity and to recognize transnational citizenship with this kind of activity,” Alex said during a lecture on K-pop and nationalism last Friday.
Park sparked controversy whe...