What Fuels Fans in China? Unraveling the Factors for Online Fan Community Engagement Associated with Politics: A Systematic Review

Scholars have long recognized that fan activism was a potential force for political participation and civic engagement. With the advancement of culture and media technology, the lines between fan activism and political activity are becoming increasingly blurred. Within the global landscape of fan activism research, regional differences in fan behavior offer valuable insights into the sociopolitical dynamics of fan culture. However, the underlying factors shaping such activism and their interaction with broader political and cultural contexts remain varied and complex. This study aims to map the current state of research on the factors shaping fan community engagement and political participation, with a particular focus on the differences in online expressions between fans in democratic and non-democratic systems. Through a systematic review of 157 sources and in-depth analysis of 26 articles, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors and motivations influencing fan engagement and political participation through online platforms across different political systems. It also contributes to a broader understanding of the relationship between participatory culture and political engagement in the digital age.