In the world of K-Pop, where every detail matters, the design of a lightstick can make or break a fan's loyalty. The recent uproar surrounding RIIZE's new lightstick design has put this notion to the test, as fans of NewJeans cry foul over perceived similarities.

The controversy centers around a specific feature: the illuminated heart shapes that both NewJeans and RIIZE lightsticks emit in darkness.

While each lightstick has its own distinct design in normal lighting, the shared heart-shaped glow has ignited accusations of plagiarism.

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라이즈 응원봉 보고 다같이
칵테일 새우인지 분모잔지.. 하고잇엇는데
멀리서 보면 하트처럼 보인대 히발 ㅜㅜㅜ pic.twitter.com/vwnwtnHTtN

— 그게.. (@dedibinn) May 4, 2024

Outrage Among Fans

Upon noticing the resemblance, NewJeans fans took to social media to voice their frustration. Many accused RIIZE's managing company, SM Entertainment, of shamelessly copying the unique feature, known affectionately as "Binky," from NewJeans and their management, ADOR.

One fan tweeted, "After seeing RIIZE's lightstick, everyone was wondering if it looked like a cocktail shrimp or a pile of rubbish. But from a distance, it supposedly looks like a heart, how frustrating!"

https://t.co/NmS0Gqo0ik pic.twitter.com/o1eJi09m4g

— 🐰 (@renebxebxe) May 5, 2024

 

They are so obsessed with new jeans its giving shameless! F why can't we have our own thing without anyone copying it? Tokki please send trucks, do protest or whatever, we cannot let this one slide https://t.co/hcNAC3vnXb

— Catochloecat🍀 (@Catocatocat123) May 5, 2024

nah qrts gotta be acting dense on purpose bc that’s clearly two different light sticks.. pic.twitter.com/QAPEyEBi3K https://t.co/ZQoZ4BTMcm

— 𝜗𝜚 (@Ieeyoee) May 5, 2024

  READ ALSO: RIIZE Shotaro Draws Attention for Apology Following Member's Dating Rumors

Defense and Dispute

In defense of RIIZE, supporters argue that the resemblance is superficial and that the two lightsticks have distinct designs under normal lighting conditions. They suggest that the heart-shaped illumination could be coincidental or a common design choice, not necessarily indicative of plagiarism.

mhj stans in qrts defending that freak with their life over a lightstick that looks nothing like theirs are yall that jobless https://t.co/Mteb2MBk1Q pic.twitter.com/dwigzWloiy

— ᯓ ❥ (@wonbinlvrs) May 5, 2024

History of Redesigns

This controversy isn't the first time RIIZE's lightstick has faced scrutiny. Originally unveiled with a design intended to symbolize an upside-down "7," the initial reception was far from favorable. Following swift backlash, RIIZE promised a redesign, which was released in April 2024.

In recent news, RIIZE's scandals have sparked discussions among Korean netizens regarding their influence on students in schools.

The controversies surrounding members Eunseok and Han Seo Hee, particularly in relation to alleged conversations with other individuals, have become prominent topics of conversation both online and offline.

Netizens reminisce about past K-pop dating scandals and their impact on school environments, with some expressing nostalgia for the excitement of discussing celebrity gossip.

International fans note the drama surrounding RIIZE and other fifth-generation groups, comparing it to previous generations of K-pop. Despite criticisms, RIIZE's popularity suggests a shift reminiscent of earlier K-pop eras, characterized by constant public and fandom gossip.

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Written by Cassidy Jones.