With the deep integration of media and the rapid rise of short-video platforms

the rise of short video platforms and the prosperity of fan economy have profoundly changed the production logic and communication layout of China's cultural and entertainment industry. Domestic growth-oriented idols have become a key symbol of contemporary youth culture and a core track in the transformation and upgrading of the cultural and entertainment industry. As a benchmark sample of localized developmental idol groups in China

Teens in Times features a long-term and systematic media image construction model as well as multi-dimensional and three-dimensional communication practices

which are of high academic research value and industrial reference value.Current academic studies on developmental idols mainly focus on industrial operation mechanisms

textual narrative characteristics and platform operation logic

mainly using qualitative text analysis as the primary method. They generally have obvious defects such as the absence of audience perspective

insufficient comparative analysis of perceptions between core fans and general audiences

and weak empirical support. Based on this

this paper takes Teens in Times as a case study

draws theoretical support from media image construction theory and fan culture theory

and adopts the semi-structured in-depth interview method. Selecting core fans and general audiences as research samples

it systematically explores the image traits

communication paths

differentiation rules of audience perception

and formation mechanism of emotional identity of developmental idol groups.The research findings indicate that Teens in Times has established a highly recognizable and integrated media image system through growth narrative framework

immersive emotional companionship

life-oriented authentic expression and empowerment with mainstream youth values. Core fans and general audiences show significant heterogeneity in attention orientation

evaluation criteria and reception motivations. Meanwhile

the group's communication is confronted with practical dilemmas such as solidified circle barriers

severe homogenization of content production

and insufficient adaptability of public image. From an empirical audience perspective

this paper proposes optimization approaches in terms of refined image shaping

coordinated linkage between circle communication and mass communication

and quality improvement of value communication. It aims to provide theoretical reference and practical paradigms for the standardized operation

sustainable development and high-quality upgrading of China's local developmental idol industry.