The 'Red Ball' Syndrome: Fandom Emerging Around Fugitive Group

A bizarre phenomenon is unfolding where the group of seven fugitive vampires is being consumed as "cultural icons" within vampire society. In particular, the unidentified object they stole—the so-called "Red Ball"—is spreading like a trend, establishing itself as the core symbol of the fandom supporting this dangerous deviation.

Recently, graphic images using the Orb as a motif have been shared rapidly across social media. It has become a trend for numerous young vampires to change their phone wallpapers or profile pictures to images of the Orb, subtly revealing themselves as "supporters" of the fugitives. For them, the Orb acts as a medium projecting the "audacity" and "challenge against taboos" of those who escaped the strict regulations of vampire society.

This fandom phenomenon has even expanded into commercial trends. Necklaces, keyrings, and phone grips modeled after the Orb have appeared in small boutique shops and online markets, with some popular sellers posting "sold out immediately upon release" notices due to the heated response. While sellers explain the designs are meant to "commemorate the event," some express discomfort regarding the trend of consuming a crime-related object as a fashion item.

Underlying this phenomenon is the public's secret admiration for the fugitives. The analysis suggests that their unconventional actions resonated deeply with vampires living mundane lives, and "the Orb" naturally established itself as a metaphor representing them.

Experts expressed concern, stating, "Although this incident is a serious crime that has shaken the order of vampire society, the public is consuming it as an entertainment narrative." However, as authorities continue to face difficulties in the pursuit, this strange syndrome of treating the fugitives like "anti-heroes" and idolizing the Orb is expected to persist for the time being.