When Cultures Collide: Kpop, Western Fans & Fetishization

Description

The rise of kpop has brought Korean culture and its idols to new fans around the world. As Western fans adopt kpop into their hearts at a rapid pace, some say there’s a sinister side to adoring an idol — fetishization. So what does fetishization really mean? Are Western fans engaging with kpop in healthy or toxic ways?  What happens when cultures collide and western fans digest kpop and where does fetishization fit in?

We’re joined by cultural anthropologist Dr. Thomas Baudinette to take a closer look and understand how cultures expand and and what that means for the fans who love celebrities from countries other than their own.