Where raincoats and balloons were trendy in the 90s, the second generation of Kpop saw a change come. With these items, fans could demonstrate their solidarity, support, and sense of community.
According to the group or a particular idol’s colour, these items would be colour-coded. However, raincoats, balloons and paper became common. Lightsticks weren’t used during the first generation of Kpop (throughout the 90s). In the first generation of Kpop, fans wanted to identify as part of a fandom, and that is where the concept of lightsticks was born. It’s much larger than that, and community is a vital element. While it’s hard to draw a parallel to other entertainment, it’s important to understand that the fandoms surrounding most Korean groups aren’t there simply for the music. The most dedicated fans may even replicate their favourite idols’ fashion! It isn’t uncommon for fans to be supporting their favourite idols and groups in competitions, be active in online communities, and even buy all of the related Kpop merchandise. Instead, it’s about idols, music, community, friendship, and more. For many fans, Kpop isn’t only about the music. To understand the history of Kpop lightsticks, it’s vital first to understand the importance and solidarity of the fandoms that surround each group. For this reason, lightsticks have a meaning much deeper than just their appearance. These devices are not only pretty, but they also allow fans to show their support for a group and to display their solidarity as a fan community. While this is a more technical look at what a Kpop lightstick is, it’s also essential to consider the other importances. This means that when fans bring their lightstick to the groups’ show, each stick can be synchronised to create some fantastic lighting patterns throughout the venue. More modern Kpop lightsticks are also capable of more advanced features, and many can be synced to a central control point at concerts. There will be a design or logo on the lightstick that represents the group. While each lightstick can vary significantly in size, shape, and features, lightsticks typically feature a handle (or stick) with a transparent bulb at the end.
Kpop lightsticks are small devices that fandoms can use to show their support of a specific group or idol. Lighsticks FAQ What Is a Kpop Lightstick? After that, we can look at some of the best Kpop lightsticks that you can collect today. In this article, I want to take a deep dive into how lightsticks became such an essential aspect of the Kpop scene. Since Kpop lightsticks are an integral part of both performances and fan collections, I wanted to dedicate a post to the topic. The moment the lightsticks are turned on and in sync is truly a sight to behold. If you’ve been to a Kpop concert before, you will know what I mean. It’s hard to explain how breathtaking it is to see an event with thousands of lightsticks. One of the most unique and special ways fans can do this is with Kpop lightsticks. While the group themselves can provide stage presence and make the event a blast, it’s the fans who truly bring the atmosphere and vibe to an event. However, there’s a second big part – the fans. Kpop is one of the few genres that combines singing and dancing into one form that grows beyond both alone. Why? In part, it’s because of the performances. As someone who has been to a range of concerts over the years, nothing has compared to the Kpop concerts and events I’ve attended. Although Kpop music is fantastic and has many fans worldwide, music alone is only a small part of what makes Kpop performances so atmospheric and fun to attend.