Fan culture promotes ‘bias’ at National City club meetings

National City is bringing global pop culture closer to home with the launch of a new K-pop Fan Club designed to connect fans through music, creativity, and shared experience in a welcoming, multigenerational space.

The club was created in response to growing local interest in K-pop and a desire to give fans a dedicated place to gather.

“The inspiration came directly from seeing how passionate our participants are about K-pop dance and the fan culture itself,” said Ale Ortega, recreation specialist and K-pop Fan Club organizer. “I personally have been a fan of BTS for five years and have completely immersed myself in their fandom. National City offers various wonderful recreation programs, but I felt like we needed a local place to gather to share our excitement together.”

BTS stands for Bangtan Sonyeondan, which translates to “Bulletproof Boy Scouts.” The name represents the group’s desire to block out stereotypes, criticisms, and societal pressures aimed at adolescents like bullets. It debuted in 2013, and at that time, the ages ranged from 15 to 20 years old, she said.

Ortega said the goal is to build a safe, inclusive environment where fans can connect over shared interests in music and performance.

“I want to continue creating a safe and inclusive environment for fans to connect to celebrate the music and groups that we love,” she said.
The club meets weekly from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sessions are designed as interactive fan gatherings that explore different aspects of K-pop culture.

“A typical club meeting is structured as a social and interactive fan gathering,” Ortega said. “We might discuss and share our biases, current K-Pop news, comebacks, fun games, music, themed crafts, etc.”

In K-pop culture, a “bias” refers to a fan’s favorite member of a group. Ortega said the concept is used as a lighthearted way to build connection and break the ice.

“Sharing biases is meant to be a fun way for members to talk and break the ice,” she said. “We make sure every member’s bias is celebrated, fostering mutual respect for everyone’s individual taste.”

On the Menu
Activities include group discussions, themed crafts, music conversations, and special events. Past programs have included open house events featuring K-snacks, karaoke, photo opportunities, and crafts, with plans including making concert light sticks.

The program is designed to be inclusive for a wide age range, including youth participants.

“The key is focusing on a shared passion for the artistry,” Ortega said. “K-pop is global and not only reaches but also spans generations.”

To ensure a safe environment, Ortega said clear guidelines are in place.

“Since we welcome youth participants, safety and positivity is essential,” she said. “I always strictly enforce guidelines, including zero-tolerance for negative interactions, keeping all language and music family-friendly.”

Interest in K-pop programming has been strong in National City, Ortega said, noting that related dance classes at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center have seen consistent participation.

“The response from the city has been great so far,” she said. “We are seeing significant interest in the K-pop genre, which is really encouraging and confirms the need for programs like this one.”

Beyond fandom, Ortega said the goal is connection and belonging.

“My ultimate goal is to create a sense of belonging and community,” she said. “Socially, I hope members build real connections and foster new friendships based on a shared interest.”

“Our program and space is a place where whatever you love is celebrated, and not judged,” she said.