tvN's weekend drama "Respond 1997" has been causing a widespread syndrome of sorts, characterized by good acting, a unique perspective of the first generation of idols and their fan girls. Their biggest appeal is that there is a huge percentage of the population who can relate to the time frame and the general atmosphere of the times, which led to the creation of fans who are incredibly devoted to the show. It doesn't just appeal to everyday citizens but celebrities as well.

At the beginning of the production, the drama was largely talked about because of the idol-turned-actors, with members from A Pink and INFINITE. But now, word of mouth has spread its popularity even wider.

Tony An, one of the original members of H.O.T. who Si Won, played by Jung Eunji is in love with, said that he watched the show and he couldn't stop laughing throughout the entire episode.

Davichi's Kang Min Kyung said, "I just happened to watch 'Respond 1997' because I wanted to study up on the Busan accent but the sun just came up." emphasizing its addictive qualities. Super Junior's Kim Kibum also tweeted about how he suggests that people watch the show. Other celebrities who had appeared as cameos, including Yang Jun Hyuk, Park Chorong and Yoon Bomi, all posted about the drama and their support for it.

Other celebrities like webtoon artist Kim Poong said, "It was like watching Ryu Seung Bum for the first time," as she was talking about Jung Eunji's performance. She expressed a particular fondness for the drama, having tweeted about its little mistakes as well.

The establishment of commonalities through nostalgia and memories is an incredibly strong appeal to celebrities and normal citizens. Celebrities weren't born celebrities and it's something that they can relate with, having gone through school at one point in their lives. Many viewers are responding positively to the drama still, saying "Even celebrities are loving it!" "It's a drama even experts can love and enjoy." "H.O.T members having fun watching themselves? That must be the real thing." "I wonder what the first generation idol members are doing~"

"Respond 1997" has been garnering a lot of attention for its story about an H.O.T fan girl, her experiences at school and the love triangle between her and two brothers.