KATSEYE’s first official light stick has created a wave of anger among fans. The merchandise, which was meant to bring the group and their supporters closer, has instead caused major confusion and disappointment. Supporters noticed that the light stick package only includes five member charms instead of six. This has led many to question what is happening with member Manon.
The light stick became available for purchase through Weverse Shop on July 16, 2025. The design features a sleek, compact look with a hexagonal star logo inside a clear sphere. The group’s name appears clearly on the handle. Member Yoonchae explained that the light stick was made small and lightweight for safety reasons to prevent wrist injuries during concerts.
Missing Photocard Sparks Fan Anger
The main issue that upset fans was the discovery that the light stick package contains only five photocards. Normally, K-pop light sticks come with a full set of member cards. For a six-member group like KATSEYE, this means one card for each member. But fans quickly noticed that Manon’s photocard was missing from their packages.
Social media exploded with unboxing videos and photos. Fans shared their purchases online, and almost everyone showed the same problem. Manon’s photocard was nowhere to be found. One fan on TikTok shared an unboxing video and was shocked to find no photocard of Manon.
The situation got worse when a Polish K-pop store updated its product description. The store clearly stated that the set contains only five photocards. They added that Manon was completely excluded by “company decision”. This official confirmation from a seller made fans even more angry and worried.
“The set contains only 5 cards, and Manon is completely excluded by ‘company decision’.” – Polish K-pop store product description
Fans Demand Answers About Manon’s Status
The missing photocard has led to many questions about Manon’s place in the group. Fans have been speculating about her status since she went on a temporary hiatus from group activities in February. The light stick situation has only made these concerns grow.
Many supporters believe the missing photocard is not a simple mistake. They think it points to something more serious about Manon’s future with KATSEYE. Some fans think the company is delaying an official announcement because of legal issues like non-disclosure agreements or contract termination conditions. Others worry the company is afraid of strong criticism from Western audiences.
Some fans, however, still believe it could be a technical error with the packaging. But as more and more fans report the same issue, the coincidence seems less likely.
Design Criticism Adds to the Drama
The light stick also faced criticism for its design even before the photocard issue came to light. Many fans called the design “basic” and “boring”. One fan on X wrote, “Another basic a** white dome light stick please get more creative hybe”. Another user on Reddit said, “Too basic for them. I was expecting a colorful girly pop lightstick because that’s how I see their branding”.
The criticism did not stop there. Fans of Stray Kids accused HYBE of copying their group’s lightstick design. They pointed out similarities between KATSEYE’s star-shaped design and Stray Kids’ compass-inspired light stick. This led to heated arguments online between different fan groups.
KATSEYE fans defended the design by saying the star pattern has been part of the group’s official logo since their debut. They explained that it represents the “hexagonal star representing the shared dreams of our six members”.
Strong Sales Despite Backlash
Even with all the criticism, the light stick sold very well. Reports showed that it sold out within minutes of its release. The product was priced at $38.56 and came with the light stick, a strap, a dust bag, an instruction manual, and the photocards. The quick sellout shows that fans still support the group strongly, even when they are unhappy with certain decisions.
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What This Means for KATSEYE and Their Fans
The light stick situation has added to ongoing discussions about HYBE’s creative choices for KATSEYE. Some fans want more distinctive merchandise that better represents the group’s unique position in the global music market. KATSEYE is marketed as a “global” act rather than strictly K-pop, which makes their release of a traditional K-pop light stick surprising to some.
For now, there is no official confirmation about whether the missing photocard is connected to Manon’s hiatus or her future in the group. Fans continue to wait for answers from the company. The situation has left many supporters feeling confused and worried about one of their favorite members.
The controversy shows how important every detail is to K-pop fans. Light sticks are more than just concert accessories. They are symbols of identity and pride for fan communities. When something goes wrong with such an important item, fans notice and they speak up.
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