An examination of the encounter between Blackpink and the People’s Party in Thailand: A visual analysis of the interrelation between cultural heritage and popular culture

This study examines the visual framing of Blackpink’s concert at Supachalasai National Stadium in Thailand, a heritage site closely linked to the People’s Party. By combining iconographic and discourse analysis, this research explores how the concert’s visual representation sparked public controversy and discourse. Using Panofsky’s iconographic method, the study identifies symbolic contrasts between the stadium’s architectural heritage and the vibrant pop culture of the concert. These contrasts highlight differing cultural and historical values, emphasising how pop culture events can impact public perceptions of heritage sites. Discourse analysis of social media comments reveals complex power dynamics, reflecting broader ideological tensions surrounding the People’s Party legacy. The findings demonstrate the influential role of digital visuals in shaping public narratives, especially concerning cultural identity and heritage conservation. This research underscores the impact of visual framing in an era where digital media amplifies engagement, offering insights into how heritage sites are reinterpreted within contemporary culture. By analysing both visual and discursive elements, the study sheds light on the interactions between heritage preservation, modern cultural expressions, and public discourse in the digital age.