First of all... there is no right or wrong way to write. Each writer does what works best for them. some have dedicated times (yeah like that would work for me) and some outline (been there, done that, might do it might not) or just start writing and see where the words fall (been there done that, etc.).
I have a favorite writer and a friend has a different favorite writer. We both dislike each other's choice but that doesn't mean our favorites are better or worse.
If a "real writer" is telling you you're doing it wrong I would question their own ability. As a matter of fact, I'd like to slap 'em up side the head. Point me in their direction, I'd like a word or two with them. As a matter of fact, maybe I'll channel my mum up and see how well they do then? (boy that burns my butt)
What is right and wrong? Victorian Dickens purple prose or Hemingway terseness? Ionesco's absurdist plays or Shakespeare's tragedies? The House of Leaves or Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farms?
It's all subjective.
My big bugaboo about research is that having wrong information is like the wrong information that spreads on the internet and facebook. How many people have read something in a book about another country and then gone there and found out the book was all wrong?
Most definitely write for the joy of it. but, for the sake of saving yourself work later, do a little research first, it makes life easier in the long run. And believe me, I'm all about whatever makes it easier.
Sorry about the sasaeng, k-pop fan here.
Write hard, write true.