The Power of K-Pop Fancalls: How Fan-Artist Interactions Foster Fan Loyalty

Making Connections Through Technology

K-Pop fans worldwide now have unprecedented opportunities to meet their idols through the magic of technology, strengthening their connection to their favorite artists and making cherished memories at the same time. Recently, I talked to a few fans and asked them to share with me their most memorable fancall moments. Here’s what they said:

“I’ve had many memorable moments with my favorite K-pop group, Big Ocean, but during our first fancall back in June of 2024, each member said to me, ‘I know you! I saw you in our video to celebrate our debut!’ Seeing them so happy meant a lot and I was very shocked to say the least.” – Charity, Big Ocean fan

“One of my most memorable moments during a video call was when my ultimate bias and I ended up singing Korean children’s songs together. It was completely spontaneous, and the whole thing felt so wholesome and pure. Hearing them laugh and join in made it such a fun and unforgettable experience. It was one of those little moments that just made everything feel so light and heartwarming.” – Jenny, multistan (MUSTB/BEMAX, GreatGuys, Black6ix)

“I think my most memorable moment was being able to connect with an idol on a truly personal level (Chanyeon of Big Ocean). Most fan calls that I have witnessed are more like a quick Q & A session about surface level interests, thoughts or the gushings of a fan on how much they love that person. Chanyeon and I, both being medical providers and both with hearing impairment, there was a deeper level of understanding and I felt he had a genuine interest in how I treat patients as a hearing impaired nurse practitioner. My favorite part was when he asked to see my adaptive stethoscope during the call. He was fascinated by the tech and we were able to ‘talk shop’ for the rest of the call, forming that bond and having a meaningful conversation.” – Erica, Big Ocean fan

“I remember the Zoom Party we had with GreatGuys before the tour that sadly never happened. It’s a beautiful memory because all 8 members were there and I could finally meet them. I think that time is a totally memorable moment.” – Ixia, GreatGuys fan

What Makes Fancalls So Special?

The fans I spoke with shared what they most enjoy about fancalls, too. For Charity, fancalls are an accessible way for her to interact with her favorite K-Pop artists because she is both disabled and doesn’t live in Korea: “I love interacting with them and telling them how much they mean to me.”

Erica enjoys the opportunity to “[ask artists] meaningful questions to find out more about them as a person. I also like to be able to more sincerely express my appreciation and admiration for their work and their art to them personally, versus just having a sound bite in a video or a message amongst hundreds on a social media site.”

For Jenny, it’s about connection and playfulness: “Video calls […] let me connect with the people who brighten my world with their music. I often enjoy teasing or playing silly games with my idols, and seeing them get flustered and smile always brings out the best laughs from everyone. It’s such a cute, lighthearted experience that makes the moment even more memorable. I genuinely love using video calls and idol messaging apps to have these interactions—it’s a way to feel closer and share those little, joyful moments.”

Ixia appreciates the way fancalls bridge long distances between fans and their idols: “I don’t live in Korea or Japan and it’s hard to see them like other Grace can do, so the video call events are the way to have a direct and special interaction with them.”

Beyond Entertainment

Interacting on fancalls gives both artists and fans a chance to express their appreciation for one another, have fun, and build genuine connections. Artists can see firsthand how much they mean to their fans, and their fans walk away with special memories to last a lifetime. 

Now that you’ve read about the joy of fancalls, you’re probably eager to participate in one yourself! Watch this space; next month we’ll bring you an article all about what to expect on your first fancall.