The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the K-POP female idols on young female fans in China, particularly focusing on their evolving and diverse representations and the growing feminist consciousness within the Chinese society. On the basis of the interviews with young Chinese female fans, the study revealed that the K-POP female idols influence them not only through their feminist messages in their music videos and lyrics but also through their feminist perspectives, and consequently shape the fans’ gender awareness. While some fans experienced a change in gender consciousness and took actions inspired by the idols’ feminism, others felt hesitant or could not express themselves due to the fear of negative judgments and stereotypes imposed on them by others. Furthermore, while these images of women might include “femininity” as portrayed by men, they also express different features, while actively expressing their own personalities. Against the backdrop of the growing feminist movement in China and South Korea, Chinese female fans who seek female “freedom” prefer to support the female idols that match their own values rather than directly or actively participate in such social movements as feminism. Moreover, they are placed in a very complex environment. While they appreciate the experience of the independence and freedom of expression of the Korean female idols, the reception of the K-POP by young Chinese female fans entails complex considerations related to identity, which would combine a foreign culture fan and national identity. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of receiving the fan empowerment through participating in the social media activities and the creation of fan content. However, it is important to note that the research is limited to interviews with specific idol groups, and further research involving a wider range of the K-POP idols and fans is required to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the girl crush K-POP female idols’ media culture.

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