Pictures of NCT's latest lightstick design surfaced online, showcasing a sleek boxy shape with each sub-unit's logo embossed on one side of the panels. This official announcement on April 22 marked a significant change in the group's merchandise lineup.
Unlike the previous designs, which differentiated between NCT 127, NCT DREAM, and WayV with distinct shapes and logos, the new lightstick presents a more unified appearance.
However, fans were dismayed to discover that the panels were not interchangeable, requiring separate purchases for each sub-unit's version.
Fan Backlash: Criticisms of SM Entertainment's Design Decision
The lack of interchangeability sparked a wave of criticism among fans, with many denouncing SM Entertainment's decision as "greedy."
Fans argued that a more versatile design, such as one base with interchangeable logos, would have been more consumer-friendly and cost-effective.
I thought they'd be interchangeable.
— 『ⁿᶜᵗ～æ』 💚 Dream in inglewood 🌴 (@neocoffeetime) April 22, 2024
I'm NOT buying 4 new lightsticks. https://t.co/osETmSSlrq pic.twitter.com/VnZOHlv0BH
btw it's 4 separate lighsticks. the slides are not interchangable and will only open for the purpose to put stuff inside...and it's more expensive! this is greedy of capitaliSM https://t.co/gb2Nd3dRsh
— 🍡 (@wayviful) April 22, 2024
you know what they could've done if they were smart? make the sides interchangeable and sell them separately so you could build one with all four subunits emblem on the sides or just one subunit on four sides depending which group you're a unit stan of. https://t.co/dU2rSMvJ9H
— ilsa 🦝 (@mysonezen) April 22, 2024
In response to the controversy, one fan suggested a compromise where one side of the panel features a collective emblem for all sub-units, while the other side remains customizable with individual logos. This would have allowed multi-unit fans to support their favorites without purchasing multiple lightsticks.
Environmental Concerns: Fans Highlight Waste of Money and Plastic
Aside from the financial burden on fans, concerns about environmental sustainability arose. With four versions of the lightstick available, fans expressed worry over the unnecessary consumption of plastic and the negative impact on the environment.
you should be sued for generating more plastic waste... this could've been one base with 4 different exchangeable designs but oh well https://t.co/35cOGPa3Zj
— ynhen ᵀᴬᴾ ᴮʸ ᵀʸ ᴼᵁᵀ ᴺᴼᵂ (@__misft) April 22, 2024
RecentlyAlleged photos of NCT's new lightstick have caused a stir among netizens, sparking a heated debate. The new design is said to be customizable for each subunit, but reactions have been mixed.
While some find it cute, others prefer the old design and have criticized the new one as "ugly." Member YangYang seemingly confirmed the new lightstick, adding fuel to the discussion.
Despite not being officially confirmed by SM Entertainment, the leaked designs have generated significant online buzz, highlighting the importance of lightsticks to fans and the challenge of accepting changes to an iconic design.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
