Controversy over similarity of Han Mae-yeon QWER light stick, infringement of THE BOYZ and fandom pride...Damage to trust (Full Story)
Sep 30, 2025
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Han Mae-yeon released a statement on the 30th saying, `We take the controversy over the similarity of cheering tools between THE BOYZ and QWER seriously and express our deep concern and regret.'
"Cheering tools are unique symbols that connect artists and fandom and are important identity assets in K-pop fandom culture," Han Mae-yeon said. This controversy not only violates the pride of certain artists and fandom, but also leads to unnecessary conflicts between fandom and undermines industry trust."
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QWER recently made the official light stick of the World Tour 'Location' in the shape of a loudspeaker. However, controversy arose because the loudspeaker-shaped light stick has already been used as an official light stick after THE BOYZ has already registered its design rights in 2022. THE BOYZ agency Won Hundred requested a design change, etc., but failed to reach a consultation", suggesting a strong response, including legal action, but QWER expressed regret for the legal response and countered that "there is no problem with copyright as a result of expert confirmation.".
Accordingly, the Korea Entertainment Producers Association issued a statement, but QWER was criticized for pushing ahead with the sale without changing the design of the light stick.
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The Korea Management Association strictly accepts the recent controversy over the similarity between THE BOYZ and QWER's cheering tools, and expresses deep concern and regret.
The cheering tool is a unique symbol that connects artists and fandom, and it is an important identity asset in K-pop fandom culture. The controversy over the similarity of cheering tools is a critical issue that not only violates the pride of certain artists and fandom, but also creates unnecessary conflicts between fandom and undermines industry trust.
As a result, Yuphap fully understands the position of THE BOYZ agency 'One Hundred Label', and expects QWER agency 'Three-Way Correction·Prism Filter Music Group' to actively cooperate to solve the problem with a sincere attitude.
In addition, this association intends to actively respond to this issue and to acts that disrupt the order of artists and fandom in the future.
1. No matter what problem arises, excessive slander and hatred cannot be tolerated. This alliance will deal firmly with these issues and contribute to the establishment of a mature fandom culture.
2. As various fields such as intellectual property are intangible assets, the boundaries between imitation and plagiarism are often ambiguous. In these situations, industry consensus and coordination are critical to catching both rabbits that protect creativity while increasing their availability. This Union will do its best to help us discuss this through a fair mediation process.
3. To ensure that the fair system of the industry, such as the protection, valuation, and deliberation of intangible assets for the future of the Korean pop culture and arts industry, the association will seek to improve the awareness of the industry through various attempts, including campaigns and education.
The dispute triggered by the light stick is an example of a variety of disputes that can arise sharply as the industry becomes more advanced in the future. For the continued growth and competitiveness of the Korean Wave in the future, it is necessary for all stakeholders in the industry to refine the system in a responsible manner to create a fair order together.
In the future, the alliance will never stand by against acts that undermine the unique symbols of artists and fandom or disrupt the order between fandom, and plans to respond firmly so that the healthy culture and trust that K-pop fandom has achieved and kept will not be shaken.
Lastly, Maeyeon supports harmonious co-prosperity between agencies, artists, and fandom and will do its best to ensure that the Korean pop culture and arts industry develops properly in the world.
silk781220@sportschosun.com
