Siyeon of QWER is facing backlash amid ongoing controversy over the group’s light stick design. Fans have accused QWER of copying the design of THE BOYZ’ light stick, leading to a storm of hate comments directed at the members.
In a bold move, Siyeon addressed the situation on Instagram, telling haters:
“To those coming all the way to my Instagram to say unspeakable things, go ahead. Thanks for fueling my dopamine. The more this happens, the more I want to rise. Thank you. Sleep well, my driving forces.”
Siyeon admitted that her remarks might stir trouble with her management, but she felt compelled to speak out as the attacks escalated. She argued:
“Even in a cyber world where anonymity is guaranteed, I believe that as human beings, we shouldn’t hurl baseless personal attacks at one another. I’m sure there’s a reason, a moment where things got twisted. But everything you throw at others will eventually come back to you.”
The controversy kicked off after QWER unveiled their light stick, reportedly inspired by Siyeon’s megaphone prop. K-Pop fans quickly noted its striking resemblance to THE BOYZ’s light stick, released in 2021.
Soon after, IST ENTERTAINMENT, the agency behind THE BOYZ, revealed they had asked QWER’s agency to change the design but faced no resolution. They are now considering legal action. QWER’s agency, however, claims their design was reviewed by experts who confirmed it does not infringe on copyright.
Tensions are mounting, and the Korea Entertainment Producer’s Association (KEPA) is monitoring the situation closely. The group released a statement regarding the severity of the matter on September 29, KST.
Stay tuned as this story develops.
