This unexpected phenomenon arose when large-scale protests, triggered by the impeachment motion against the president, saw glow sticks replace traditional LED candles. At the Dec. 7 protest in Yeouido, Seoul, many women in their 20s and 30s carried colorful glow sticks instead of candles.
With a second protest planned for the weekend following the impeachment rejection, demand for glow sticks has surged nationwide. However, since lightsticks are generally produced in limited quantities based on the size of the fandom, most are sold out. This shortage has pushed people to look for second-hand or even counterfeit versions. On December 9, Danggeun Market listings for idol light sticks were bustling across Seoul.
Among the many K-pop groups, NCT’s lightstick has become the most sought after. Its strong brightness and cubic design make it ideal for attacking protest slogans such as “Impeach” and “Resign”. The customization options also cater to people who want to express their own unique protest style. Epik High’s glow stick is another favorite thanks to its middle finger-like design, which fits perfectly with the sentiment of the protests.
Second-hand prices for NCT’s lightstick are around KRW 40,000, while those of BLACKPINK, EXO, Sung Si-kyung, BIGBANG and SHINee range between KRW 20,000 and 40,000 depending on condition, battery life and packaging original. Some posts even offer free rentals for protest purposes, requiring only a KRW 50,000 deposit.
One music industry insider commented: “Not even the merchandise planners could have imagined glow sticks being used in protests like this. It’s a clear reflection of the MZ generation’s aversion to solemnity.” The insider added: “NCT’s glowstick, nicknamed “pork cutlet hammer” or “Thor’s hammer” by fans, being used in this way is truly ironic.”
Meanwhile, the protest atmosphere was electrified with songs like BIGBANG G-Dragon’s “Crooked” and “APT.” by Rosé, while songs by SHINee, Girls’ Generation, BTS, SEVENTEEN and aespa transformed the event into what felt like a concert.
Source: Nate
