an idol (), in fandom culture in south korea, refers to a celebrity working in the field of k-pop, either as a member of a group or as a solo act. k-pop idols are characterized by the highly manufactured star system that they are produced by and debuted under, as well as their tendency to represent a hybridized convergence of visuals, music, fashion, dance, and music influenced by western culture. they usually work for a mainstream entertainment agency and have undergone extensive training in dance, vocals, and foreign language. idols maintain a carefully curated public image and social media presence, and dedicate significant time and resources to building relationships with fans through concerts and meetups.