RIIZE has finally revealed their revised lightstick, fueling the excitement in the BRIIZE fandom. However, fans were divided due to its design.
Here's what happened.
RIIZE's Revised Lightstick Receives Mixed Reactions For Being Too 'Basic'
Earlier on March 5, RIIZE revealed their initial lightstick, which featured the bong's features resembling a pointing hand. Some were simply happy to receive the supposed lightstick, but others criticized its appearance.
Netizens and fans pointed out the similarities of the hand lightstick to Epik High's Park Kyu-bong (play on words for 'f**k you'), which showcases the middle finger gesture. The lightstick has gained attention from the K-pop community due to its vulgar but humorous appeal.
The other reason for the controversy was that the pointing hand may be seen as an insult in other countries. Due to this concern, fans have brought up the matter to SM Entertainment's "KWANGYA 119" to address the trouble and ultimately change its design.
On April 30, RIIZE finally uploaded their revised lightstick through their official SNS. On social media platform X (Twitter), the photo showed the classic sphere design that the group's name logo and a stage light-like motif, bringing in a retro look.
In one side, fans claimed it as a downgrade compared to its first design. This led some BRIIZEs to call out fellow fans for "bullying" the original design, which led to its omission and replacement.
You complained about the finger model, so SM gave you the globe version as revenge.
A portion of the fandom were satisfied with the new layout, while others simply made memes out of the revised lightstick. Read their posts below:
The fanlight looks cool tho idk why people are complaining. It looks like a mini podium stage with shooting star shaped lightings. This one is definitely better than the ugly ass mickey mouse pointer stick lol https://t.co/a2rsvKYcF5pic.twitter.com/1BufnT7ai2