At a rally in Yeouido, Seoul, calling for the resignation of President Yoon Suk-yeol, K-pop idol light sticks appeared, creating a unique demonstration culture reminiscent of a K-pop dance party. Participants used these light sticks—customarily seen at concerts—highlighting their increasing societal influence beyond just popular culture.
Second-generation K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation’s song “Into the New World” played at a student protest at Ewha Womans University in 2016, demonstrating the societal impact of K-pop. This moment highlighted the role of idols not just as cultural icons but as influencers in social issues, with some referring to the song as the “Anthem of the Young Generation.”
Fans in their 20s and 30s attended the rally, waving their favorite idols’ light sticks instead of candles despite the cold weather. Media outlets such as the New York Times and AFP noted this trend, describing it as a cross between a protest and a K-pop concert.
The development of light stick culture began with K-pop’s early fandom culture, where distinct colors represented different groups, evolving from balloons to illuminated sticks, and eventually to today’s sophisticated light sticks. This evolution reflects fans’ desires for identity and differentiation, with such light sticks now symbolizing personal and collective identity, seamlessly integrating into social movements.
The early form of 3D light sticks is credited to Big Bang’s “Bangbong,” reportedly designed by leader G-Dragon, though singer Se7en claims his light stick was the precursor, albeit more of a glowing stick.
The practical utility, symbolism of individuality, and potential for fostering community distinguish light sticks within demonstration culture. With long-lasting battery life and strong illumination, they are more durable and safer than candles, especially in harsh weather. As K-pop idols have risen to global prominence, their fans have actively embraced the expression of fan identity, finding empowerment in these symbols.
Furthermore, the relational dynamic between K-pop idols and their fandoms has strengthened over generations, with both becoming more vocal about social and political matters. This expanded the role of light sticks beyond symbols of fan loyalty to representations of collective social and national voices.
K-pop’s history of resonating with marginalized groups and evolving into a global cultural force has embedded these light sticks into protest culture. The Yeouido rally marked a novel collaboration of various fandoms, manifesting solidarity, with even middle-aged participants learning about and acquiring these light sticks.
K-pop light sticks have already gained international recognition, as highlighted in events like the 2022 “Hallyu! The Korean Wave” exhibit at the V&A Museum in London and the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Team Korea carried a digital version inspired by K-pop light sticks.
In this context, light sticks signify a peak in protest culture, leading even cleanup efforts at events, as fans feel a responsibility to uphold the reputation of their favorite idols. This dual commitment to fandom and civic duty surpasses that of many elected officials, reflecting the profound connection between idol worship and patriotism.