As controversy intensifies over the similarity between the official lightstick designs of THE BOYZ and QWER, the Korea Entertainment Producers Association (연매협) has issued a statement calling for industry-level mediation and a reform of the system.
On September 20, the association addressed the situation, which threatens to escalate into a legal dispute, stating:
“This controversy goes beyond simple imitation or conflict: it marks a turning point that affects the future of K-POP merchandise culture, the community spirit among fandoms, and the global competitiveness of the Hallyu wave.”
The association continued:
“The two agencies have differing positions, but it is now necessary to take into account a balanced and rigorous judgment on legal matters, the establishment of objective facts, industry practices, and the concept of public domain in design, as well as the social importance of fandom identity. If the debate is limited to a legal confrontation, K-POP risks facing a decline in creativity, increased exclusivity and isolation within fan cultures, and a loss of credibility in both domestic and international markets.”
The association proposed several concrete measures:
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Develop standard guidelines to ensure clear protection of creative assets belonging to agencies, artists, and fandoms.
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Promote a culture of mutual understanding and respect among fandoms, while warning against baseless attacks, hate, or cyberbullying targeting other fandoms or artists.
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Establish mechanisms for conciliation and mediation between parties, as well as effective measures to prevent recurrence.
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Strengthen a planning and validation system in advance, including the prior registration of official merchandise designs, public review, and pre-discussions within the industry.
The controversy over lightstick similarity arose recently when QWER’s new lightstick was seen by fans as resembling the megaphone-shaped lightstick used by THE BOYZ since 2021. Since these items are an essential symbol of the bond between an artist and their fandom, THE BOYZ’s fans (The B) expressed opposition by demanding a design change and organizing collective actions such as protests with advertising trucks.
In response, THE BOYZ’s agency, ONE HUNDRED, stated:
“The lightstick is a precious symbol that connects the artist and fandom.” The agency asked QWER to modify their design, but since this “did not lead to a conclusion”, they announced: “To prevent recurrence, we will respond firmly, including through all necessary legal procedures.”
For its part, QWER’s agency countered:
“The official lightstick was reviewed multiple times by experts, including lawyers and industrial property consultants, and it was confirmed that there was no infringement, including copyright.” It also expressed regret over the sudden legal action announcement while discussions were still ongoing, and hinted it would maintain the existing design.
A “lightstick” dispute like this, similar to past conflicts over fandom colors, risks heavily impacting the K-pop world if not quickly resolved and regulated.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS THE BOYZ, QWER, 연매협
