NCT's Original Light Stick Is Losing Wireless Support After 8 Years

SM Entertainment will end wireless support for NCT and WayV's original light sticks later this month.

The company announced Aug. 18 that wireless control for the Ver. 1 light sticks will be discontinued after Aug. 31. Starting Sept. 1, only the Ver. 2 models for NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV and NCT WISH will be supported for wireless syncing at concerts.

The original light sticks will still work manually, but they will no longer sync with the lighting and effects controlled during performances. SM Entertainment said the change is intended to provide a better concert experience.

The announcement quickly drew reactions from fans, many of whom have used the original light sticks for years. NCT's boxy neon green design, often nicknamed the "green brick" by fans, has become a familiar sight at the group's concerts. WayV's original green light stick has similarly become closely associated with the group's fandom.

Some fans said they would continue bringing their old light sticks to concerts even without wireless syncing, while others questioned having to buy a newer version to take part in the synchronized effects. Others raised concerns about the additional cost and waste.

The timing also added to the nostalgia, with the change coming as NCT marks its 10th anniversary this year.