Lightsticks are an essential way that K-Pop fans engage with their music and each other. As K-Pop groups return to the stage following the COVID 19 pandemic lock-down, demand for these wands has increased exponentially. Unfortunately, the global chip shortage has pushed up the price for this colorful electrical merch.

The Semiconductor Chip Shortage

The semiconductor chip shortage has driven up the price of everything from cars to household appliances and phones.

Partly due to the COVID 19 global pandemic, which resulted in a greater demand for semiconductor goods like laptops, and disruptions in supply chains and international shipping such as the Suez Canal Blockage, this global shortage has hit nearly every industry, including K-Pop.

Chips and Lightsticks

K-Pop lightsticks rely on low-end chips to change colors and connect to phones.

Unfortunately for fans, these microcontrollers are currently the most affected by the shortage. As a result, shipping charges, wait times, and chip costs have all tripled for manufacturers.

• Because of this, prices have increased for fans, BTS lightsticks (nicknamed “ARMY Bombs”) have increased by 2 dollars.
• Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN lightsticks have increased by 3 dollars.
• SM Entertainment lightsticks for groups like SHINee, EXO, and Girls Generation are unavailable and sold out.
• Furthermore, international pop sensation Blackpink’s iconic lightsticks are sold out, with entertainment companies unable to manufacture the wands.

The Effects on Fans

These prices affect fans, some of whom already struggle with the high pricetags of online concerts tickets, physical albums, and other pricey merchandise essential to many fans’ experience. 

Opinions on when this shortage will level out vary, although most agree that it will continue until the end of 2021, with some arguing that buyers will still be feeling the effects in 2023.

Resources:

• Reuters
• CNBC
• FORBES
• India Today

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