User Experience Matters: A Qualitative Exploration of Effort Expectancy and Behavioural Intention in Social Media Use Among Korean Pop (K-pop) Fans
Keywords:
K-pop, Social Media, Effort Expectancy, Behavioural Intention, Technology Acceptance, UTAUTAbstract
This qualitative observational study investigates the relationship between Effort Expectancy and Behavioural Intention to use social media among K-pop fans, drawing upon the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The study examines how Effort Expectancy influences fans' intentions to engage with social media platforms within the context of the K-pop fandom. Through systematic observation of participants' social media activities, data were collected and analysed to uncover insights into fans' perceptions and behaviours regarding social media usage. Findings revealed that participants perceive social media platforms to vary in terms of ease of use, with factors such as user interface design and functionality shaping their judgments of Effort Expectancy. Despite variations in Effort Expectancy, participants demonstrated a consistent and strong intention to use social media for fan-related activities, such as connecting with other fans, sharing content, and supporting their favourite artists. The results highlight the importance of Effort Expectancy in driving fans' intentions to engage with social media platforms within the K-pop fandom context, contributing to understanding of technology adoption within fan communities and the applicability of UTAUT in the context of social media usage among K-pop fans.



