Abstract :
This study discusses the phenomenon of imitation behavior of Indonesian
teenagers who are fans of K-pop idols in the Korean Wave culture. The
background of this study emerged from the popularity of the Korean Wave among
teenagers who later found the process of integrating Korean culture into their
daily lives. This study focuses on how this imitation behavior is reflected in
aspects of lifestyle, such as appearance, habits, and social patterns. Using a
constructivist paradigm and a transcendental phenomenological approach, the
theories applied include the Theory of Cultural Adaptation, Acculturation, and
Social Learning. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with six teenage
informants aged 15?25 years, consisting of four women and two men. Qualitative
methods were used to explore the subjective experiences of informants in
understanding, adopting, and integrating elements of Korean culture into their
identities.
The results of the study showed many similar things in which informants
adopted elements of Korean culture such as fashion, food, and self-care habits,
while still maintaining their local culture. The findings of the study showed that
all of informants interpreted K-pop culture as a space of inspiration in selfdevelopment, such as discipline and increasing self-confidence. In addition,
involvement in fandom communities provides space for self-expression, building
social networks, and expanding cultural insights. This study concludes that the
Korean Wave is not only an entertainment phenomenon, but also a place for
cultural integration that forms a combined identity in Indonesian teenagers.
Recommendations are given for further research on the role of digital media in the
process of adolescent cultural adaptation, as well as educational approaches that
direct balanced cultural adoption.
Keywords: Korean Wave, imitation behavior, teenagers, Korean culture,
phenomenology, K-pop.
204 KOM 2024