Have you ever heard of a lightstick?
If you’re not familiar with idol culture, the word might be completely new to you.
In K-pop, lightsticks are essential tools for showing support—especially at concerts!
Today, let’s explore the culture and meaning behind K-pop lightsticks.
💌 Want more K-POP deep dives like this?
Subscribe to Hello Bias Letters, our free Substack newsletter!
Each week, we unpack K-POP culture with care—from fan behavior to behind-the-scenes stories.
→ Join us here
What Is a K-pop Lightstick?
Origin and Definition
In Korean, a lightstick is called 응원봉 (eungwonbong), which literally means “cheering stick.”
It refers to a glowing, stick-shaped light used to support idols.
The practice originally started in Japanese idol culture, but it’s now a key part of K-pop fandom as well.
When you see glowing crowds in concert videos, it’s because fans are holding their lightsticks!
Why Do K-pop Groups Have Lightsticks?
Fandom Identity and Group Colors
Lightsticks are a symbol of fandom identity.
At solo concerts, they create a sense of unity among fans and idols. At joint stages or festivals, they show exactly which group you’re supporting.
Most K-pop groups have their own uniquely designed lightsticks.
For example:
- BTS fans use the ARMY Bomb, shaped like a round bomb.
- Stray Kids fans use the Nachimbong (나침봉), designed to look like a compass.
The design of each lightstick reflects the identity and concept of the group.
Lightsticks as a Symbol of Belonging
When attending a solo concert, bringing a lightstick is a must!
The venue becomes a sea of lights matching the group’s color or tour theme, creating a beautiful and emotional experience.
Fans wave their lightsticks in sync, adding to the excitement and unity.
A concert with a lightstick? Absolutely more magical.
How Do K-pop Lightsticks Work?
Bluetooth and App Sync Features
Modern lightsticks often connect via Bluetooth to an app, making them part of the concert’s visual effects.
By linking your lightstick to the app and entering your seat number, the staff can control how and when your light changes color, turns off, or flashes.
Sometimes, patterns or words are formed across the audience using the lights—so stunning that you might find yourself watching the crowd instead of the stage!
Yes, setting it up might be a bit tricky (and the lightsticks are pricey), but once you’re at the show, it’s worth every penny.
In this concert footage, the audience lights up with red and green polka-dot patterns, making the fans’ lightsticks a part of the show’s visual effects—it’s such a fun and creative touch!
Popular and Unique Lightsticks in K-pop
Some Fan Favorites (Unique & Prettiest Designs)
Here are a few famous and fan-favorite lightsticks:
- ARMY Bomb (BTS): Known for its bomb-like shape, it’s probably the most iconic K-pop lightstick.
- Nachimbong (Stray Kids): Modeled after a compass, reflecting the group’s message of finding direction together.
- Carat Bong (SEVENTEEN): Named after their fans, “Carats,” this elegant lightstick is a fan favorite.
- The “Grass Mace” (NCT): Nicknamed by fans for its neon green color and chunky shape—it’s unforgettable and a bit humorous!
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Concert Item
Lightsticks aren’t just concert gear—they’re a symbol of belonging.
They connect fans to idols and to each other, and they’re part of the live performance itself.
They’re also perfect for social media!
Fans love to take aesthetic photos with their lightstick, photocards, and plushies, often with the concert venue in the background.
Some even use lightsticks as part of their room décor—and it looks adorable.
If you’ve found a group you love, getting a lightstick is a fun way to deepen your connection with them!
📝 Want to learn more K-pop fan terms? Check out our glossary [here].
💬 If you found this post helpful, consider supporting me with a coffee!
Your support keeps Hello Bias going ☕💛
👉 Buy Me a Coffee
