Debate is heating up online over whether QWER’s newly unveiled official lightstick looks too similar to the one used by THE BOYZ, prompting both camps to issue dueling statements.
Posts across online forums and social media argue the designs share noticeable similarities. Some fans say extra care is needed since a lightstick serves as a symbolic bridge between an artist and their fandom.
THE BOYZ’s label One Hundred said, "Because a lightstick is a meaningful symbol that connects the artist and fandom, we understand fans may feel uncomfortable even with the controversy itself." The company added, "We continued discussions with QWER’s side and requested a design change, but talks didn’t reach a conclusion," noting it plans to "pursue strong measures, including legal action, to prevent this from happening again."
In response, QWER’s agencies 3Y Corporation and Prismfilter countered, "The official lightstick poses no issues in terms of design or copyright, and reviews by attorneys and patent attorneys found no infringement."
They continued, "It’s regrettable that a legal action stance emerged while we were working toward an amicable resolution. We’ll use this moment to listen to diverse opinions and show a better approach for our artists and fans."
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)
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