Understanding Crazy K-pop Fans: Sasaengs in Detail

When we talk about K-pop, many fans are passionate and supportive, but some can be described as sasaengs. These fans are not merely obsessive; their behaviors can be extremely concerning and often involve stalking or invasion of privacy. This article will provide a detailed look into what makes a K-pop fan a sasaeng and the behaviors that differentiate them from other types of fans.

Defining Sasaengs vs. Saesang

Sasaengs are a breed of K-pop fan that goes beyond mere fandom. They exhibit obsessive and sometimes dangerous behaviors towards K-pop idols, often crossing the line into invasion of privacy and even criminal activities. The term 'sasaeng' can be confused with 'saesang,' a term that means 'intruder' in Korean and is used to describe unauthorized fans who follow K-pop idols without permission.

Types of K-pop Fans

It's important to distinguish between different types of K-pop fans to better understand the phenomenon of sasaengs. Here are some common terms associated with various types of K-pop fans:

Saesangs

Saesangs are extremely dangerous and invasive fans. They are often described as stalkers and can engage in actions that constitute invasion of privacy. Some notable behaviors include:

Following idols without permission Breaking into hotels or properties where idols stay Installing cameras or microphones without consent Urging removal of idols' teammates (akgaes)

This behavior can be extremely harmful and has resulted in several high-profile incidents involving K-pop idols.

S Koreaboos

These fans are obsessed with K-pop and South Korea but denigrate their own countries. This term often reflects a negative attitude towards the idol's home countries and tends to create a sense of superiority or derogation.

Fanatics

Fanatics go above and beyond to protect their idols, often resulting in fanwars (fan wars) when other fans express differing opinions. They can be so zealous that they threaten or even physically assault individuals who criticize the idols.

Drama Bitches

These fans are characterized by their protective and antagonistic stance towards their idols. They are willing to do whatever it takes to defend their idols from criticism or negative attention, often crossing the line into obsessive behavior.

Delulus

While not as extreme, delulus are fans who dream about idealized scenarios involving their idols. They might fantasize about being with the idol, sometimes to the point of planning to go to South Korea to attend a concert and fantasize about being the object of affection.

Shippers

Shippers are fans who believe that certain idol members should date each other, often due to their close proximity in the industry. This can lead to dramatic and sometimes hostile interactions, especially if they disagree with other fans' opinions.

Notable Incidents Involving Sasaengs

To better illustrate the behavior of sasaengs, here are a few notable incidents involving K-pop idols:

SEVENTEEN’s Angry Fan Signing

During a SEVENTEEN fan signing, a sasaeng fan became extremely agitated over Joshua. She started throwing objects at him, causing a shock to the audience. The fan's behavior did not cease even when she moved away, showing extreme disregard for the safety and well-being of the idol.

EXO’s Secret Recordings

During EXO’s overseas trips, sasaeng fans managed to break into the hotel and install cameras in the gym and members' rooms, as well as microphones. This invasion of privacy was fortunately noticed and addressed by the idol's managers, but it highlights the extent to which sasaengs can go.

Kim Jaejoong’s Sexual Harassment

Kim Jaejoong experienced a disturbing incident at a sauna where a sasaeng fan snuck up on him while he was asleep. The fan snapped a photo and posted it online, even boasting that she kissed him. This incident is a prime example of the harmful actions that sasaengs can take.

Taecyeon’s Bloody Note

2PM's Taecyeon received a disturbing note written in blood, stating that the sender could not live without him. The note was posted online with additional proof of the note being written with menstrual blood. This incident, while not immediately violent, highlighted the dangerous and obsessive nature of sasaeng behavior.

Final Thoughts

While the term 'sasaeng' can be used widely, it primarily refers to fans who go to extreme lengths to pursue idols and can often engage in invasive and dangerous behavior. Understanding these behaviors and the impact they have on the K-pop industry and its idols is crucial for both fans and the industry to address and mitigate these issues effectively.