Student Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
Fall 12-19-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Program of Study
Communication - Corporate Communication
Language
English
First Advisor
Yoo Ri Yang
Abstract
This thesis examines how K-pop artists use Instagram and Weverse to communicate with fans, and how platform-specific affordances shape the relational dynamics of contemporary fandom. Using a mixed-method content analysis of four artists—Seventeen, Babymonster, Lee Sung-Kyoung, and Kim Myungsoo (L)—this study compares 2022–2024 posting patterns across both platforms. Quantitative findings show that highly curated promotional photos and videos dominate Instagram, whereas Weverse contains far more text-based, casual, and relational posts.
This study further reveals that Weverse fosters dialogic communication, personal disclosure, and multilingual fan interaction, unlike on public-facing platforms. Drawing on dialogic communication theory and computer-mediated communication (CMC) interaction frameworks, this thesis argues that Weverse functions as a dedicated relational space where artists cultivate emotional closeness and community with their most invested fans. At the same time, Instagram serves broader branding and visibility purposes. The study contributes to understanding how digital platform design shapes artist–fan relationships and highlights the importance of platform-specific communication in the global expansion of K-pop fandom.
Recommended Citation
Xu, Huanchun, "Dialogic Communication and Digital Fandom: The Role of K-pop in Shaping Global Artist–Fan Relationships" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/bb_etds/219
