追(お)っかけ

Derived from the verb 追(お)いかける (to chase after), with the casual sound change おいかけ → おっかけ. The word describes fans who physically follow celebrities to events, concerts, and appearances. While it can be used lightheartedly, it sometimes carries a slightly negative nuance of obsessiveness.

Usage

Can be used as a noun (追(お)っかけ) to describe the person, or as a verb phrase (追(お)っかけをする) to describe the activity. 追(お)っかけファン is a common reinforced form.

Common collocations

• 追(お)っかけをする — to follow (a celebrity) around
• 追(お)っかけファン — devoted/obsessive fan
• アイドルの追(お)っかけ — an idol's devoted follower

Cultural note

The concept is particularly associated with Japan's idol culture, where fans travel across the country to attend handshake events, concerts, and public appearances. The term predates the internet era and reflects a tradition of physically present fandom.

Similar words

• ファン — fan; general term without the "following around" nuance
• 熱狂的(ねっきょうてき)ファン — fanatical fan; emphasizes intensity of emotion
• ストーカー — stalker; much more negative, implies criminal behavior