QWER’s Light Stick Design Sparks Controversy
On September 30, 2025, QWER officially released their light stick design ahead of their first world tour “LOCATION” in Seoul. However, the design drew significant criticism as it bore similarities to The Boyz’s light stick, which has been in use since 2021. This controversy has stirred discussions regarding copyright and design ethics within the K-pop community.
The Boyz’s Agency Takes Action
On September 25, 2025, One Hundred, the agency representing The Boyz, announced that they were aware of the design controversy surrounding QWER’s light stick. They confirmed that they have requested design changes from QWER but noted that no final conclusion had been reached at that time. The agency is taking the matter seriously, aiming to protect their artists’ brand integrity.
Siyeon’s Response to Cyberbullying
In light of the negative feedback received, QWER member Siyeon took to social media on September 30, 2025, to address the situation. He expressed gratitude for the attention but also highlighted the issue of cyberbullying. Siyeon urged fans to focus on positivity and support rather than engaging in harmful comments.
Legal Opinions and Mediation Efforts
As the situation escalated, QWER’s agency, Three Y Corporation, along with Prism Filter, stated that they had consulted with legal experts. They found no copyright infringement regarding the light stick design, which has fueled further debate among fans and industry stakeholders.
The Korea Entertainment Producers Association (YEONJEH) has stepped in to mediate the dispute between QWER and One Hundred, highlighting the growing concern over copyright issues in the K-pop industry.
Community Reactions
The K-pop community has shown mixed reactions to the controversy. Some fans have sided with The Boyz, emphasizing the importance of originality in design, while others have defended QWER, arguing that creativity often draws from existing concepts. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how both groups will navigate this challenging situation.
In summary, the light stick controversy has not only sparked debates about design ethics and copyright but also brought attention to the impact of negative online comments on artists. The ongoing developments will be closely monitored by fans and industry insiders alike.
This brief was automatically generated from official updates. For in-depth coverage, visit our Trends section.