Map of the Soul: How BTS Reconstructs Cultural Identity Through Transmedia Storytelling

Conference: The Asian Undergraduate Research Symposium (AURS8)
Title: Map of the Soul: How BTS Reconstructs Cultural Identity Through Transmedia Storytelling
Stream: Culture, Popular Culture and Cultural Studies
Presentation Type: Virtual Poster Presentation
Authors:
Mei Flory, University of San Diego, United States

Abstract:

This paper analyzes how the popular K-pop group BTS incorporates psychoanalytical theories of identity in their music and media as a way of blurring the distinction between their personal selves and their stage personas. In reconciling discrepancies between their dual identities, BTS ultimately reconfigures their cultural identity via a Postmodernist approach. To address these topics more comprehensively, this paper closely examines three songs from the band’s album, Map of the Soul: 7, and their corresponding music videos. Rather than focus on fandom culture or BTS’ economic impact on South Korea, this paper centers around the visual media and lyricism of BTS and how their work transcends the K-pop genre.