Their debut song “Into the New World” (lyrics by Kim Jeong-bae, composed by Kenzie) is a masterpiece that blends an emotional melody with hopeful lyrics, exuding power when paired with the group’s high-energy choreography.
This synergy found a unique resonance during the 2016 Ewha Womans University protests, where “Into the New World” became a rallying anthem, not only for the popular music industry but also as a broader cultural and social symbol. The phenomenon reaffirmed K-pop’s ability to transcend its roots as mere popular culture to become a force of social influence. Some have even dubbed the song the “Morning Dew” of the younger generations.
While not a political song per se, “Into the New World” resonates with themes of restoration and hope, reflecting the ideal of returning things to their rightful place.
In 2020, during anti-government protests in Thailand calling for the Prime Minister’s resignation and royal reforms, the song once again became a rallying cry for young people, cementing its status as a global resistance anthem.
Recently, during the protest in Yeouido calling for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, triggered by his declaration of martial law, the song was heard again. The young participants sang the touching phrase “I want to convey my depressing moments to you / But you will only hear it after everything has dispersed” with sincere determination.
The protest playlist featured a mix of old and new hits, including “Whiplash” by Aespa, “Candy” by HOT/NCT DREAM, “APT.” by Rosé, “Ring Ding Dong” by SHINee, “Fighting” by SEVENTEEN BSS, “Crooked” by G-Dragon. ” and even classics like “One Candle” by Dio.
Attendees, mostly women in their 20s and 30s, swapped traditional candles for K-pop idol glow sticks, waving them in unison like a sea of radiant colors.
Foreign media, including The New York Times and AFP, reported on the unique spectacle of the K-pop-inspired protests, in which participants waved glow sticks in the cold winter air, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a dance party K-pop.
The evolution of glow sticks in K-Pop
Glowstick culture began in the second generation of K-pop fandom, evolving from the colorful balloons of the first generation to the simple glowsticks and finally the intricate designs we see today.
Among them, BIGBANG’s “Bang Bong” is often considered the first 3D light stick, supposedly designed by G-Dragon himself. While there were previous attempts like SE7EN’s glow stick, they were less refined.
Each glowstick carries with it the identity of its fandom, from SHINee’s “Shating Star” to NewJeans’ “Binky Bong.” These artifacts represent not only loyalty to a group, but a unique form of self-expression and unity.
Light sticks in protests: efficiency, identity and solidarity
Glow sticks offer practical benefits during protests, such as portability and bright illumination. Unlike candles that risk going out, glow sticks are long-lasting, some lasting more than seven hours on a full charge. More importantly, they symbolize individuality and collective solidarity, aligning perfectly with the independent spirit of the MZ generation.
As K-pop has grown from a niche subculture to a global phenomenon, its fans have become more vocal about social and political issues. Glowsticks, once tools of fan fervor, have now become symbols of civic engagement, amplifying voices both inside and outside of fandoms.
In Yeouido, the protest’s “National Light Stick Union” brought together a kaleidoscope of shining lights, symbolizing the solidarity of different groups. Participants cleaned up the protest area, underlining their responsibility to uphold the reputation of their “prejudices.”
A 20-year-old NewJeans fan remarked: “Amid all the recent difficulties, the announcement of martial law was the straw that broke the camel’s back. But being here, surrounded by these glowsticks, brought an unexpected peace. These glow sticks look like flags for our generation.”
The growing importance of glow sticks in cultural and civic spaces is also evident internationally. In 2022, the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK unveiled K-pop glow sticks as part of its “Hallyu! The Korea Wave,” highlighting their significance in fandom culture. The 2024 Paris Olympics also saw South Korean athletes carry digital flags inspired by K-pop glow sticks, designed by HYBE.
From symbolic tools of fandom to powerful icons of civic expression, glow sticks have found their place at the forefront of modern protest culture. This reflects not only K-pop’s evolving role in society, but also the maturity and depth of its fans, who blend a love for their idols with a deep commitment to the betterment of society.
Source: Nate
