Sasaengs

Sasaeng is a term originating from South Korea that refers to an obsessive fan of a K-pop idol or other celebrity. These fans are known for their extreme and invasive behavior, which often infringes upon the privacy and personal lives of the individuals they idolize. Sasaengs go to great lengths to gather information about their idols, including private phone numbers, addresses, flight details, and even attempting to gain access to their living spaces.

The actions of sasaengs can include stalking, following celebrities, loitering outside their homes or agencies, and making persistent unwanted contact. They have been known to call idols incessantly, send inappropriate gifts, and even physically confront them. This behavior can lead to significant distress, fear, and psychological impact on the celebrities.

While sasaengs often justify their actions as expressions of deep affection, their conduct is widely considered unhealthy and constitutes harassment. Entertainment companies in South Korea have implemented various measures to protect their artists from sasaengs, including increasing security, pursuing legal action, and educating fans about appropriate behavior. The phenomenon highlights the complex relationship between idols and their fans in the K-pop industry and the challenges of maintaining personal boundaries in the face of intense fandom.