K-pop Fandom Names: ARMY, BLINK, STAY, ATINY and More

Every K-pop group has a fandom name: an official name given to its community of fans. It's more than a detail — it's an identity, often full of meaning, that ties the group to its fans. Here are the main K-pop fandom names and what they mean.

What is a fandom name?

A fandom name is chosen by the group (or its label) to refer to its fans. It usually comes from wordplay, a concept, or a promise between the artist and their community. Saying "I'm ARMY" or "I'm BLINK" signals your belonging in a single word.

The fandoms of the groups we love

• ARMY — BTS. Officially "Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth," with the idea that an army and its armor belong together, like the group and its fans.
• BLINK — BLACKPINK. A blend of "BLack" and "pINK."
• STAY — Stray Kids. The idea that the group and its fans "stay" together.
• ATINY — ATEEZ. A blend of ATEEZ and destiny.

The other major K-pop fandoms

• ONCE — TWICE. If TWICE gives love "once," fans give it back "twice."
• CARAT — SEVENTEEN. A diamond has facets: fans are the "carats" to the group's diamond.
• ENGENE — ENHYPEN. A mix of engine and gene: the group's energy and DNA.
• MOA — TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT). Short for "Moment Of Alwaysness."
• MY — aespa. Short and possessive: "my" aespa.
• MIDZY — ITZY. From the Korean idea of "between you and me."
• NEVERLAND — (G)I-DLE. The land where fans never grow old.
• Bunnies — NewJeans, a nod to their bunny mascot.

Wearing your fandom

Many fans like to wear their group's colors or name. Our customizable jerseys and per-group collections make that easy — your member's name on the back, no explanation needed.

FAQ

What is a fandom in K-pop?

The official community of a group's fans, referred to by a proper name (ARMY, BLINK, STAY…).

What is BTS's fandom called?

ARMY.

Who chooses the fandom name?

The group or its label, often announced shortly after debut.

Can you belong to more than one fandom?

Of course — multi-stans belong to several fandoms at once.