KATSEYE Reveals New Lightstick, Drawing Mixed Reactions From Fans for Being 'Basic' and 'Boring'

Girl group KATSEYE officially unveiled its first lightstick on July 11, 2025, sparking widespread debate among fans and critics, with some calling the design "basic" and "boring."

The group announced the merchandise through their official social media channels, with the message "EYEKONS, get ready to make a scene with the KATSEYE Official Light Stick."

The lightstick features a sleek, compact design that includes the group's hexagonal star logo enclosed in a clear sphere, with KATSEYE's name prominently displayed on the handle. The design was inspired by a cat's eye gemstone, which reflects the group's name and branding concept. Member Yoonchae said the lightstick was intentionally made small and lightweight for safety reasons to prevent wrist injuries during concerts.

Fan reactions have been notably divided since the announcement, with many supporters taking to social media platforms to express disappointment with what they perceived as an uninspired design.

"Another basic a** white dome light stick please get more creative hybe," one fan said on X. "Too basic for them. I was expecting a colorful girly pop lightstick because that's how I see their branding," another user said on Reddit.

The controversy intensified when fans of Stray Kids accused HYBE of plagiarizing their group's lightstick design. Critics pointed out similarities between KATSEYE's star-shaped design and Stray Kids' compass-inspired lightstick, leading to heated discussions online.

However, KATSEYE fans defended the design, arguing that the star pattern has been part of the group's official logo since their debut and represents the "hexagonal star representing the shared dreams of our six members." Some supporters emphasized that the design is based on a cat's eye gemstone rather than copying another group's concept.

The lightstick became available for pre-order on July 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM PDT through Weverse Shop, priced at $38.56. Despite the mixed reactions, demand for the product proved strong, with reports indicating the lightstick sold out within minutes of release. The merchandise package includes the lightstick itself, a strap, a dust bag, an instruction manual, and six photo cards.

KATSEYE's decision to release a traditional K-pop lightstick was surprising for a group marketed as a "global" act rather than strictly K-pop. Some fans suggested alternative designs that would better reflect the group's identity, such as cat-themed elements or more colorful aesthetics that match their vibrant music style.

The lightstick controversy adds to ongoing discussions about HYBE's creative decisions for KATSEYE, with some fans calling for more distinctive merchandise that better represents the group's unique positioning in the global music market. Despite the criticism, the rapid sellout suggests strong fan dedication, even amid design concerns.