It's long been said that tension and war can bring people closer ¡ª but no one expected to see unity between hardcore cricket lovers and K-pop fandoms. These two massive fan groups, often at odds online, have now come together amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan to combat misinformation and share accurate updates with the world.
While major K-pop fandoms, especially BTS and BLACKPINK fans, took the lead in explaining the situation to their non-Asian followers, many Indians online suddenly recognized the power K-pop fans wield ¡ª especially in the face of rampant fake news on social media.
Interestingly, many Indians began to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts Desi K-pop fans have been making to counter misinformation, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). With BTS boasting the largest K-pop fanbase in India, locals shared how they've even started listening to the group's music and cheering them on.
One local commented, "Big respect to Indian BTS and BLACKPINK fans who've consistently upheld India's image on Twitter. While fandoms can be chaotic, you've shown maturity, unity, and global awareness. Thank you for representing us so well. Jai Hind."
Another wrote, "True! The Exponential 7 gang is doing a fab job! They're using their numbers and group coordination in the best way! Good for them! Jai Hind!"
One said, "Indian K-pop fans, I wasn't familiar with your game."
Another added, "BTS Army mein naya hoon, bag kahan rakhu?" (Translation: "I'm new to the BTS Army ¡ª where should I put my bag?")
One user observed, "This thread shows how people still stereotype BTS fans as teenage girls screaming at posters. In reality, most ARMYs I've come across are highly educated, well-informed, socially aware, and incredibly thoughtful individuals. Amazing."
And another stated, "Indian K-pop fans are literally elite. They¡¯re posting threads with every piece of info you could ever need and dragging fake news peddlers left and right."
While many K-pop fans are enjoying the unexpected praise, they've also emphasized that they are Indians first. Some even gave a light-hearted heads-up to locals that, come June, their timelines will be filled with news about BTS' long-awaited reunion.
The 7-member group ¡ª Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook ¡ª is set to reunite in June after a hiatus that began in 2022 due to South Korea's mandatory military service.?
On Saturday, US President Donald Trump revealed that India and Pakistan had reached a "full and immediate ceasefire" after US mediation. The two nations, who had exchanged fire for the past three days, will now engage in talks on various issues at a neutral venue.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the ceasefire, stating, "Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours today. Both sides agreed to halt all firing and military action¡ªon land, air, and sea¡ªfrom 1700 hours IST. Instructions to implement this understanding have been issued. The DGMOs will have another conversation on May 12 at 1200 hours."?