This study examines the manifestations and driving mechanisms of cyberbullying within digital fandom communities in China. Drawing on a subcultural perspective and based on 307 valid survey responses, it focuses on the behaviour of extreme Akgae, a group of exclusive solo fans who strongly defend a single idol. The findings suggest that cyberbullying by extreme fans is not a random emotional reaction but a strategic behaviour aimed at protecting the perceived status of their idol within the fandom. Aggressive actions, including verbal abuse, defamation and organised collective reporting, are primarily directed at competitors within the same fan community, such as rival fans or other members of the same idol group. The analysis identifies three key factors that contribute to this behaviour: social identity, cognitive rationalisation and platform mechanisms. Strong emotional attachment to idols strengthens ingroup loyalty and hostility towards outsiders, allowing fans to justify aggressive behaviour as a defence of their idol’s reputation. In addition, platform features such as algorithmic recommendation systems and community structures reinforce interaction within particular fan groups, creating relatively closed information environments that further strengthen group identity and encourage the normalisation of extreme behaviour.
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