PHENOMENOLOGY OF IMITATION BEHAVIOR AMONG TEENAGE KOREAN IDOLS FANS WITHIN THE KOREAN WAVE CULTURE

Abstract

This study discusses the phenomenon of imitation behavior of Indonesian teenagers who are fans of K-pop idols in the Korean Wave culture. The background of this study emerged from the popularity of the Korean Wave among teenagers who later found the process of integrating Korean culture into their daily lives. This study focuses on how this imitation behavior is reflected in aspects of lifestyle, such as appearance, habits, and social patterns. Using a constructivist paradigm and a transcendental phenomenological approach, the theories applied include the Theory of Cultural Adaptation, Acculturation, and Social Learning. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with six teenage informants aged 15–25 years, consisting of four women and two men. Qualitative methods were used to explore the subjective experiences of informants in understanding, adopting, and integrating elements of Korean culture into their identities. The results of the study showed many similar things in which informants adopted elements of Korean culture such as fashion, food, and self-care habits, while still maintaining their local culture. The findings of the study showed that all of informants interpreted K-pop culture as a space of inspiration in self-development, such as discipline and increasing self-confidence. In addition, involvement in fandom communities provides space for self-expression, building social networks, and expanding cultural insights. This study concludes that the Korean Wave is not only an entertainment phenomenon, but also a place for cultural integration that forms a combined identity in Indonesian teenagers. Recommendations are given for further research on the role of digital media in the process of adolescent cultural adaptation, as well as educational approaches that direct balanced cultural adoption.