NCT, Epik High, More K-pop Idol Lightsticks See Increase in Demand Amid Protest

2 weeks ago 12

As Koreans continue to protest against President Yoon Suk Yeol, members of the K-pop community have played a significant role by using their fanlights during the demonstrations.

Earlier, the request to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol was rejected, prompting protesters to embark on a second round of candlelight vigils this weekend.

However, instead of candles, various K-pop fans, who joined the rally on December 7, used their lightsticks to illuminate the crowd. At the time, a roll call of the fanlights also took place.

As a result, the demand for these pieces of K-pop merchandise increased rapidly nationwide.

"This is the NCT lightstick (Neobong) that became popular as a protest item this time. I used it once during NCT Dream's solo concert last year, and it has stronger lighting power than the ver. 2 that came out this year. Get it now," one fan said.

Accordingly, the item became in demand due to its best light output and longevity compared to LED candles. Among the lightsticks, NCT's design is the most preferred and convenient as protesters can customize it and attach phrases like "impeach" and "step down" to the cube light.

As of December 9, idol lightstick transactions have been brisk in all areas of Seoul on the Karrot market. NCT fanlights quickly sold out due to the sizable NCTzen fandom. With this, most buyers resorted to purchasing second-hand products.

The second most popular one is Epik High's cheering stick, Park Kyu Bong. As it is shaped like flashing a middle finger, it perfectly expresses the emotions of protesters.

More fanlights that were used in the rallies were hammerbong (BLACKPINK), Pharynx/Eribong (EXO), BangBong (BIGBANG), and shating star (SHINee). Amid the protests, these lightsticks also saw an increase in sales for ₩20,000 to ₩40,000 ($14 to $28).

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