Lately, one topic has been making waves across social media: Performative Male. This phenomenon describes men who present a softer, more “in tune” side, enjoying K-Pop, reading feminist books, and similar interests, often not out of genuine passion but to gain attention. At first glance, it may seem charming or progressive. But on closer inspection, it is often a tactic to distance themselves from the rigid “alpha male” image and create a more appealing version of themselves in certain spaces.

In an era where appearances can be carefully curated, this phenomenon is less about who they truly are and more about the role they choose to play. While it may seem harmless on the surface, there is an underlying message that makes audiences question the intent behind it.

Beyond the Highlight Reel

For many young Indonesians, this behavior feels more like a performance than a genuine expression. The carefully curated “relatable” persona often comes across as a gimmick rather than a true reflection of character. This does not mean they reject aesthetics or neat presentation, but they can sense when something exists purely for image.

In today’s world where people are increasingly aware of image crafting, audiences tend to gravitate toward connections that feel transparent, sincere, and grounded in real values. They want to see unfiltered moments, the process behind a product, and the real people behind it.

Trust Grows Where Authenticity Lives

For brands looking to stay relevant in this space, the key is not to jump on the trend or parody it for quick virality. The focus should be on authentic intent, building meaningful and genuine connections rather than chasing short-term attention.

Show your audience the brand’s real journey: ideas in development, experiments that are not always perfect, and the voices that shape what you create. Stay consistent with your values and avoid reacting impulsively to fleeting viral moments. When audiences see a brand stand firm in what it believes, trust will grow and last far longer than the lifespan of any trend.