Seoul’s urban landscape has been transformed into a vibrant spectacle of light and sound, blending K-pop fandom with political protest. Throngs of music enthusiasts are taking to the streets, their voices raised in song and glow sticks illuminating the night sky in a demonstration against President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Each evening, in front of the National Assembly building, a predominantly young crowd gathers. Their glow sticks, flashing in coordinated patterns of green, pink, and white, create a mesmerizing display. These color combinations are significant, representing some of South Korea’s most popular K-pop groups, such as NCT, EXO, Seventeen, and Aespa. This unique form of protest highlights the growing influence of K-pop culture and its ability to mobilize young people for political action. The demonstrations leverage the shared language of fandom, utilizing familiar colors and rhythms to express collective dissent and solidarity.
This visually striking protest tactic underscores the power of popular culture in contemporary political discourse. By appropriating the aesthetics of K-pop concerts, the demonstrators are able to create a sense of community and shared identity while simultaneously challenging the current political climate. The nightly gatherings in Seoul provide a potent example of how cultural expressions can be effectively harnessed to amplify political messages and engage a younger generation in civic participation. The glow stick rallies offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of political activism in South Korea, where K-pop fandom and political expression converge in a dynamic and visually arresting manner.
