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4.09 AVERAGE
4.09 AVERAGE
sisforsony's review
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.5
I think every Kpop fan, current or former, should read this memoir at some point. Be sure to be in a good headspace as there are many triggering/sensitive topics.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Bullying, Eating disorder, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Mental illness, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Suicide attempt, Murder, and Dysphoria
Moderate: Cancer, Drug use, Homophobia, Misogyny, Sexism, Medical content, Kidnapping, Grief, Religious bigotry, Cultural appropriation, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Adult/minor relationship
cinderellaeyes's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
Giaae Kwon’s I'll Love You Forever is a reflective and deeply personal exploration of K-pop fandom, blending memoir and cultural analysis. Through a mix of personal essays and historical context, Kwon examines what it means to be a fan and how K-pop reflects larger societal structures, particularly gender norms in Korea.
One of the book’s standout themes is Kwon’s exploration of her Koreanness—being born in America to immigrant parents and navigating her identity through the lens of K-pop. Her reflections on what it means to connect with a culture she wasn’t raised in add depth to the narrative, making it not just about fandom but also about belonging and self-discovery.
Kwon also thoughtfully addresses the topic of loneliness, showing how K-pop and the fandom provide a sense of comfort and connection, especially for those dealing with anxiety or feeling disconnected from their immediate surroundings. It’s a poignant look at how fan culture can offer solace even when it’s not reciprocated by the idols themselves.
While the book offers insightful commentary on fan culture, there are a few drawbacks. Some parts feel disjointed, making it hard to follow the flow at times. Additionally, several Korean words are left untranslated, which might make it difficult for readers unfamiliar with the language. If you know Korean, the words will come naturally, but for others, it could be a minor barrier.
A few essays, particularly those about BTS, also fell a bit flat and didn’t feel as engaging as the rest of the content. Despite these moments, the book provides thoughtful analysis of gender in Korea and the emotional connections fans form with idols, especially when navigating loneliness and anxiety.
Overall, I'll Love You Forever is a valuable read for anyone interested in the intersection of fan culture, identity, and societal expectations, but it may not hold everyone’s attention from start to finish.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Body shaming, Drug abuse, Mental illness, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, and Religious bigotry
tracithomas's review
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
This is such a lovely reflection on art and self. I enjoyed learning about K Pop but struggled to really grasp the references. The writing reads as casual which I was impressed by because that conversational tone can feel cheap in memoir, but not here. It’s very enjoyable— like a convo with a smart friend but not a pretentious one. Kwon is genuine and eager and that is nice to spend time with.
titalindaslibrary's review
emotional
hopeful
informative
slow-paced
A moving memoir that shares such joy and hope found in k-pop while also examining it and its culture critically.
I think Kwon’s journey in leaving the church was especially impactful to me because I relate to so much of what she said. Much of my own departure from Christianity and the church followed the same path. And to hear how k-pop played a part in shaping her worldview to even expose her to different perspectives that allowed her to branch out? Well, no wonder some Christians preach so hard against secular music lmao guess they were right!
Overall this is a tender memoir (if a bit repetitious in sections) that I absolutely loved. I appreciate the intersectional thinking and Kwon’s rebuke to Americans who apply Western models of thinking and values to a Korean industry.
I think Kwon’s journey in leaving the church was especially impactful to me because I relate to so much of what she said. Much of my own departure from Christianity and the church followed the same path. And to hear how k-pop played a part in shaping her worldview to even expose her to different perspectives that allowed her to branch out? Well, no wonder some Christians preach so hard against secular music lmao guess they were right!
Overall this is a tender memoir (if a bit repetitious in sections) that I absolutely loved. I appreciate the intersectional thinking and Kwon’s rebuke to Americans who apply Western models of thinking and values to a Korean industry.