What is a Lightstick?

This is the Pharynx or ‘Eri-Bong’, the lightstick for the group EXO. Lightsticks, also known in Korean as 응원봉 (eunwon-bong), or simply 봉 (bong) are handheld torches with custom designs, used for cheering during live events. They are collectibles, with prices ranging from about 15 euros for a simple version, to 30-40 euros for more elaborate ones. Some limited editions are even resold for prices over a hundred euros!

Lightsticks aren’t a purely Korean phenomenon. Surely you are familiar with holding up a lighter or your phone during a concert. Lightsticks work the same way!