Lightsticks and official merchandise

A lightstick is an official cheering tool designed in a shape and color unique to each group. Fans wave them together at concerts, and many recent models connect via Bluetooth so their colors change automatically during the show. Because they symbolize the group, they are also popular as collectibles.

You can buy them from the agency's official online store, the merchandise booth at concerts, or record shops named as official retailers. International fans can use the global store of the agency or its fan platform. Check the agency's announcements for the current list of authorized sellers.

Lightsticks sold far below normal by unofficial sellers are likely counterfeits. Some official sellers use hologram authenticity stickers and some products carry serial numbers, but not every genuine lightstick has them, so check the official notice. Fakes may not respond to the venue's central control system, so buy only from authorized retailers.

Download the official lightstick app, switch the lightstick on, and connect it through Bluetooth in the app. At concerts with seat-linked wireless light shows, you may need to register your seat details in the app, though some shows need no separate pairing at all. Steps differ by group and concert, so follow the included manual and official notice.

First check that the batteries are fresh and that your seat information was entered correctly in the app. Updating the app and the lightstick firmware before the concert helps avoid problems. If it still won't sync, ask staff or look for a lightstick help booth at the venue, which some concerts provide.

Groups sometimes release new lightstick versions with updated designs or features. Central control at recent concerts is usually built around the latest version, though older ones are often still supported. Before buying, check the official notice to see which versions will sync at upcoming shows.

Most lightsticks run on regular batteries and can usually go in carry-on luggage, but it is safest to remove the batteries and pack them separately. If a model has a built-in rechargeable battery, checked-baggage rules may differ. Always confirm with your airline and airport security regulations.

Merch booths usually open on the concert day or sometimes the day before, but exact hours differ by show. For popular concerts, fans may line up from early morning and some items sell out fast. Check the item list and booth hours the agency posts in advance.

Some concerts offer online pre-orders with pickup at the venue to shorten the lines. Leftover goods are also sometimes sold through the official online store after the tour. Arrangements differ from show to show, so watch the agency's notices for pre-order dates and pickup instructions.

Besides lightsticks, there are slogan towels, T-shirts, photocard sets, keyrings, posters and season's greetings packages. Each tour often has limited-edition items, and fan meetings or birthdays may bring separate merchandise lines. Buying from official sellers guarantees quality and authenticity. Prices and availability change, so check the official store.

Season's greetings are merchandise sets for the coming year, usually sold toward the end of the year. They typically include a calendar, a diary, photos and photocards. Contents and release timing vary by group, and they are often sold by pre-order, so check the official store's announcements.

Official fan club members usually receive a membership kit and get chances at concert presales or members-only events. Benefits, membership periods and sign-up methods differ by group, and many fan clubs now run through fan platform apps. Always check the official announcement before paying for a membership.

Seoul has several agency-run stores, pop-up shops, record stores and merchandise specialty shops. Pop-up stores often open only briefly around a comeback or anniversary. Locations and opening status change frequently, so check the official social accounts of the agency or store before you visit.

Unofficial fan-made goods often use an artist's photos or logos without permission, which can raise portrait-rights and trademark issues. Revenue from official merchandise goes back to the artist and their company. If you want your purchase to support the artist, choosing official products is the better option.

Battery life depends on the model, brightness and whether Bluetooth is in use. Central control mode tends to drain power faster, so put in fresh batteries on concert day and carry spares. When you won't use the lightstick for a while, remove the batteries to prevent leaks that can damage it.

Warranty and exchange terms depend on the product, the seller and applicable law, and not every lightstick has the same coverage period. If yours breaks, contact the seller or manufacturer's customer service first, and keep your receipt and authenticity information. Read the included manual and the seller's guidance for the exact process.

Many agencies and fan platforms run global stores that ship internationally. Delivery can take a while and customs duties may apply, so check the shipping conditions for your country before ordering. Some Korean record shops also offer international shipping for albums and goods.

Many fans decorate their lightsticks with stickers, ribbons or dedicated covers. Just avoid covering the light area or adding heavy items, which can dim the light or damage it. At concerts, keep decorations small so you don't block the view of people behind you.

Selling items you bought for yourself secondhand is common, but bulk-buying limited editions to resell at a markup hurts other fans. Some official sales limit how many items each person can buy. When trading secondhand, watch out for scams and use in-person trades or secure payment services.

Yes. A lightstick adds to the atmosphere, but you can fully enjoy the show without one by clapping and joining the fan chants. If it is your first concert, you can go once and then decide whether a lightstick is worth buying for the next time.