국내기사
The impact of micro-drama viewing motivation on flow experience and continuous viewing intention : evidence from Chinese users based on the UTAUT2 model
With the rapid advancement of digital technologies and smart media, patterns of media use have transformed significantly. Among emerging formats, Micro-Dramas have gained strong momentum within the short-form video ecosystem. Combining concise storytelling, emotional appeal, and platform interactivity, they represent a hybrid genre at the intersection of entertainment, social engagement, and commercial innovation. In China, this format has grown rapidly, reaching 662 million users by the end of 2024, supported by multi-platform strategies and policy initiatives from institutions such as the National Radio and Television Administration. This study investigates how viewing motivation influences the flow experience and continuous viewing intention within the extended UTAUT2 framework. Motivational factors were identified through interviews with 10 highly engaged users and validated with survey data from 774 Chinese viewers. Structural equation modeling revealed that motivation significantly predicted both flow (β = 0.628, p < 0.001) and continuance (β = 0.460, p < 0.001). Flow further enhanced continuance (β = 0.356, p < 0.001) and partially mediated the motivation-continuance link (indirect β = 0.296, 95% CI [0.197, 0.411], p < 0.001). Theoretically, this research integrates technology acceptance motives with experiential states, extending UTAUT2 into narrative entertainment and formalizing a motivation – flow – continuance mechanism. Practically, it suggests that platforms can strengthen user retention through flow-oriented design, resonant storytelling, socially reinforced release strategies, and personalized recommendations, thereby supporting the sustainable development of the micro-drama industry.