NCT Lightstick Gains Popularity as Protest Symbol, Ranks High on Second-Hand Market

A New Wave of Protest: Lightsticks Take Center Stage

In a surprising turn of events, large-scale protests ignited by the impeachment proceedings against the president have given rise to a novel form of activism: the use of colorful idol lightsticks. During the protests on December 7 in Yeouido, Seoul, numerous women in their 20s and 30s forsook traditional LED candles for vibrant lightsticks, traditionally associated with K-pop fandoms.

Demand Surge Amid Protest Actions

With a follow-up protest scheduled for the weekend after the rejection of the impeachment motion, the demand for these lightsticks has skyrocketed across the nation. Typically manufactured in limited runs dictated by fandom sizes, many popular lightsticks have become sold out. Consequently, individuals are turning toward second-hand markets or even counterfeit alternatives. Listings for idol lightsticks on platforms like Danggeun Market surged on December 9, reflecting the spirited enthusiasm in Seoul.

NCT Emerges as the Favorite

Among the wide array of K-pop merchandise, NCT‘s lightstick has emerged as the most coveted item due to its distinctive cubic design and intense luminosity. These features make it particularly suitable for displaying protest slogans such as “Impeach” and “Resign.” Furthermore, the ability to personalize lightsticks offers individuals a unique avenue to showcase their own style during protests. Epik High’s lightstick has also gained popularity, with its design resembling a raised middle finger—a symbol of dissent that resonates with the protestors’ sentiments.

Market Dynamics of Second-Hand Lightsticks

In the secondary market, NCT lightsticks are fetching prices around 40,000 KRW, while other popular items like those from BLACKPINK, EXO, Sung Si-kyung, BIGBANG, and SHINee range between 20,000 and 40,000 KRW. Prices fluctuate based on condition, battery performance, and packaging quality. Additionally, some listings offer lightsticks for free rental specifically for protest purposes, with a security deposit of 50,000 KRW.

Industry Insights: The Cultural Impact of K-pop Merchandise

An insider from the music industry remarked, “Merchandise planners couldn’t have anticipated such a creative adaptation of lightsticks for protests. It perfectly reflects the MZ generation’s preference for less traditional expressions of dissent.” The insider also highlighted the irony of NCT’s lightstick, affectionately dubbed “pork cutlet hammer” or “Thor’s hammer” by fans, being wielded in a context far removed from its original purpose.

Musical Atmosphere Enhances Protest Experience

The ambiance of the protests was further heightened by the inclusion of songs such as BIGBANG G-Dragon’s “Crooked” and Rosé’s “APT.” Popular tracks from other major K-pop acts like SHINee, Girls’ Generation, BTS, SEVENTEEN, and aespa transported participants into a compelling blend of activism and concert atmosphere, demonstrating the powerful intersection of music and social movements.

Source: Nate

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