Once a Leader, Now Under Fire: YG Entertainment’s Lightsticks Face Fan Criticism

K-pop concerts are never complete without the presence of lightsticks. These luminous accessories serve as more than just merchandise—they are powerful symbols of fandom loyalty and group identity. Over the years, YG Entertainment set a high standard with iconic lightsticks such as BIGBANG’s Bang Bong and TREASURE’s Teu-light. However, recent lightstick designs from YG have sparked backlash, with fans criticizing the lack of creativity and uniqueness.

The Birth of an Icon: BIGBANG’s Bang Bong

BIGBANG’s lightstick, Bang Bong, holds a special place in K-pop history as the first-ever official K-pop lightstick. Designed by none other than G-Dragon, this lightstick became a cultural phenomenon, representing a new era where concerts were transformed into dazzling light shows. Before the advent of lightsticks, fans typically used colored balloons to show their support at concerts. The Bang Bong’s creation revolutionized the fan experience, setting the stage for the rise of unique lightsticks across the industry.

Creativity in Decline? Fans Criticize YG’s Recent Lightsticks

YG Entertainment, once celebrated for its innovative and visually stunning lightstick designs, now finds itself at the center of criticism. Fans have voiced concerns that recent lightsticks have become too generic, lacking the distinctive flair that YG’s older designs possessed. Many argue that the designs have shifted from creative and unique to basic and uninspired, with little effort put into representing each group’s identity.

Disappointment Ahead of 2NE1’s Comeback

As anticipation builds for 2NE1’s comeback tour, fans were let down by the reveal of their new lightstick design. Many described it as boring, ordinary, and a downgrade from the original, aesthetic lightstick. Considering the legendary status of 2NE1 and their fandom, BLACKJACKS, fans had expected a more striking and innovative design to match the group’s powerful return. The original 2NE1 lightstick had been a perfect representation of the group’s bold and edgy image, but this new design feels lackluster in comparison.

BABYMONSTER’s Prototype: A Missed Opportunity

YG Entertainment also faced backlash for the prototype of BABYMONSTER’s upcoming lightstick. Fans were quick to point out its generic design, claiming that it lacked the distinctiveness that YG lightsticks were once known for. Many expressed disappointment, feeling that the design doesn’t do justice to the group’s potential or properly reflect BABYMONSTER’s image.

Despite incorporating advanced technology such as Bluetooth connectivity, LED synchronization with concerts, and interactive features, YG’s recent lightstick designs have not lived up to fan expectations. The shift towards more standardized, spherical designs has left many fans longing for the creativity and uniqueness that YG was once celebrated for.

What Do You Think?

As YG Entertainment continues to face criticism over its recent lightstick designs, fans are left wondering if the company will listen and bring back the creativity that made their lightsticks iconic in the first place. What are your thoughts on the recent lightstick designs? Are you excited for any of the upcoming releases, or do you miss the old, more creative styles?