THE PSYCHOLOGY OF K-POP PHOTO CARD COLLECTION: EXPLORING MOTIVATION AND EMOTIONAL BONDS

Abstract

This research explores the psychology behind K-Pop photo card collecting. To examine key aspects of the phenomenon, the researcher conducted a survey with 200 photo card collectors. Respondents shared their motivations and emotional attachments to the photo cards through a structured questionnaire. The study aims to investigate the relationship between collectors' motivations for acquiring photo cards of musical artists and the emotional bonds they form with them. Revisiting these dynamics is essential in understanding the broader context of fan culture and consumer psychology. The survey included several items addressing the foundations of collecting behavior, such as an appreciation for aesthetically pleasing items, feelings of nostalgia, opportunities for social interaction, and the potential for financial gain. The researchers employed a quantitative approach, as it enables the systematic construction and analysis of the relationship between motivation and emotional bonds in K-Pop photo card collecting. Purposive sampling was used to select participants, and the research instrument was administered to 200 K-Pop photo card collectors through an online survey. Given the broad population of collectors, the study focused only on individuals aged 18 to 30 years old who have been collecting photo cards for more than two years and have been K-pop fans for at least two years. The research instruments consisted of standardized tests, which were validated by third-party psychometricians to ensure reliability and accuracy. The results of the study show that most respondents were between 18 and 21 years old, with a higher number of female participants than male. Findings reveal that respondents generally exhibit a positive but moderate level of affection, connection, and passion toward K-pop photo cards. The researchers also identified a moderate positive correlation between the collectors' motivations and their emotional bonds with the photo cards. Motivation and emotional bonds are significant factors in K-Pop photo card collecting. To some extent, fans form emotional connections with their favorite idols by identifying with them, which evokes feelings of joy, comfort, and personal empowerment. A sense of contentment is often experienced when fans successfully search for and acquire rare photo cards. This overall process of collecting contributes to heightened fan satisfaction. These findings suggest that while K-pop photo card collecting is a desirable and constructive hobby, it may also carry potential negative outcomes if left unmoderated. A deeper understanding of both motivation and emotional bonding in this context could inform the development of school-based programs aimed at leveraging students' interests to re-engage those who are academically disengaged.