Evolving Storyworlds of K-pop Idol IPs: Generational Shifts in Fan Engagement and the Embodiment of Desire

This study explores the evolving storytelling strategies and consumption patterns of K-pop idol IP (intellectual property) through a comparative analysis of the first-generation idol group Shinhwa and the third-generation group EXO. By examining their official storyworlds—constructed through album lyrics and official concept materials—and fan-produced storyworlds such as fanfiction, the research highlights the dynamic interplay between official narratives and fan creativity. The necessity of this study lies in addressing the gap in understanding how K-pop fandom’s creative practices and digital media environments have shaped and been shaped by idol storytelling strategies across generations. Methodologically, the study employs a mixed approach combining text mining, topic modeling, and cluster analysis to analyze official album content and approximately 1,350 fanfictions. Shinhwa’s narrative, lacking a unified official storyworld, emphasizes emotional and seasonal themes, fostering fan-driven interpretations and creative reimagination. In contrast, EXO’s meticulously crafted storyworld, grounded in a supernatural concept (EXO Planet), reflects a paradigm shift in K-pop storytelling, where immersive world-building serves as a key engagement strategy. The findings reveal distinct generational differences: Shinhwa fans primarily centered their narratives around the idols’ physical attributes and relational dynamics, while EXO fanfictions incorporated official world-building elements, albeit selectively. The study further demonstrates that fanfiction, as a medium, not only supplements but also transforms the official storyworld, underlining the reciprocal and symbiotic relationship between official and fan-generated content. Additionally, the study examines the ethical implications of fan creations, particularly regarding idol privacy, image distortion, and the challenges of regulating digital fandom platforms. This research contributes to the fields of K-pop studies, fandom culture, and digital humanities by offering critical insights into the collaborative and contentious spaces of K-pop storytelling. It underscores the importance of balancing creative freedom and ethical responsibility in a globalized digital fandom context, providing a foundation for further exploration of K-pop’s cultural and industrial significance.