Difference of Parasocial Relationships Between China and Korea Under Various Social and Cultural Backgrounds

Abstract

The entertainment industry has reached a high level of maturity worldwide, with each country boasting its unique system and approach. Consequently, the nature of parasocial relationships between celebrities and fans varies significantly due to diverse cultural and social backgrounds. Notably, in Asia, both China and Korea experienced a similar period of development in the entertainment industry, yet they have diverged into distinct paths. Understanding the intricacies of parasocial relationships within these cultural and social contexts is significant as it provides valuable insights into the dynamics of celebrity-fan interactions. This paper aims to explore and compare the dynamics of parasocial relationships in the Chinese and Korean entertainment industries, with a particular focus on the influence of cultural and societal factors. To identify and examine the key factors that shape the behaviors in parasocial relationships, this paper compares in two influential factors: companionship and social gratification. There is a more thorough system of the entertainment industry, and the Korean government supports the development of entertainment rather than control a lot in China. It is within the realm of these factors that the behaviors of individuals engaged in parasocial relationships, both on the side of celebrities and fans, are significantly impacted. By delving into the disparities between Chinese and Korean entertainment industries, this paper aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the factors that shape parasocial relationships and shed light on the cultural nuances that influence these phenomena.