Suprapto, Sanggar Kanto, Ali MaShuri, Anton Novenanto
This study examines the evolution of parasocial interactions within K-pop fandoms, focusing on the BTS fan community Cypher ARMY Malang. Utilizing a virtual ethnography approach, the research explores how parasocial relationships evolve into trans-parasocial interactions, where fans transition from one-way connections to two-way interactions with artists, fostering active participation in fan culture. The study investigates experiences, Q&A sessions, and live-stream engagements to uncover how these interactions construct shared meaning and cultivate collective experiences among fans. Our findings reveal that platforms like Weverse and Instagram play a critical role in facilitating two-way interactions, enabling fans to build emotional closeness and engage in fan activism. Fans demonstrate creative participation through content creation, social campaigns, and cultural contributions, reflecting dynamic interactions between the fanbase and idol narratives. This progression underscores the sociological implications of trans-parasocial interactions in digital culture, offering fresh insights into fan studies, cultural sociology, and media studies. © (2025), (Journal of Asian Sociology). All rights reserved.
Brawijaya University, Indonesia
