古参

• Reading: こさん
• Romaji: kosan
• Kanji breakdown: 古 (old/ancient) + 参 (participate/visit) → old participant/veteran
• Pronunciation: /ko.saɴ/

Meaning

A veteran or long-time fan who has been following something since early on — an OG supporter.

古参 refers to fans who have been part of a fandom since its early days, before it became popular. Being a 古参 often comes with respect and perceived authority on the subject, but can also lead to gatekeeping behavior toward newcomers. The term is used in anime, idol, gaming, and YouTube/streaming communities.

Examples

1. あの配信者の古参リスナーだから初期の伝説全部知ってる。 I've been a veteran listener of that streamer, so I know all the legendary early moments.
2. 古参ファンとして言わせてもらうと、昔の方がよかった。 As a veteran fan, let me just say — it was better back in the day.
3. 古参ぶるのやめてほしい、新規にも優しくしてよ。 I wish people would stop acting like veteran fans are superior — be nice to newcomers too.

Usage Guide

Context: fan communities, streaming, idol fandom, social media

Tone: proud, sometimes gatekeeping

Do Say

• 古参だけど新規の人たちも大歓迎だよ (I'm a veteran fan but newcomers are totally welcome)
• 古参の話聞くと歴史がわかって面白い (Listening to veteran fans is interesting because you learn the history)

Don't Say

• 「古参だから偉い」みたいな態度は嫌われる (Acting superior because you're a veteran fan will make people dislike you)

Common Mistakes

• Using 古参 to gatekeep and exclude new fans — this behavior is widely criticized
• Calling yourself 古参 when you joined relatively recently

Origin & History

Originally a military term meaning 'old-timer' or 'veteran soldier.' The fan community adopted it in the 2000s to distinguish long-time followers from newcomers, particularly in online communities and idol fandoms.

Cultural Context

Era: 2000s internet fan culture

Generation: All ages

Social background: Fan communities

Regional notes: Used across Japan in all types of fan communities. Often contrasted with 新規 (newcomer).