Information Systems Paper Development workshop: Dongwon Lee
Dongwon Lee
School of Business, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Participatory Governance and Consumer Engagement:
Evidence from a Blockchain-Based K-pop Community
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Location: Bronfman Building, Room 245
Abstract
We study how participatory governance shapes consumer continuance in a large decentralized K-pop community. Using granular blockchain data from TripleS, where fans purchase collectible NFT cards and receive non-transferable voting rights to decide group members, song styles, and creative direction, we track first-time voters before and after their initial vote. A stacked difference-in-differences design across voting rounds compares new voters to never-voters within the same round. Voting increases daily tangible contributions by 1.0% and intangible contributions by 1.4%. Effects are heterogeneous. Large voters sustain intangible engagement but are less likely than small voters to increase purchases, especially after undesired outcomes. We use the expectation disconfirmation theory to explain the phenomenon. Corroborating evidence shows more substantial purchase pullbacks by large voters when vote tallies are highly unequal, when choice sets concern group members with high-salience stakes, and when large voters cast early votes. These conditions are consistent with higher ex ante expectations. This study contributes to user innovation research and offers practical insights for platform designers seeking equitable, sustainable, consumer-driven ecosystems.
