The exorbitant prices of merchandise at LE SSERAFIM’s pop-up shop have ignited a wave of backlash from online users. Recently, HYBE launched a temporary store in Melbourne, Australia, featuring LE SSERAFIM products.
While many fans were eager to snag official items, they were taken aback by the steep price tags. For instance, a basic T-shirt was listed at 169 Australian dollars (approximately 115 USD), while a jacket was marked at a staggering 795 AUD (over 500 USD). Even a small item like a sticker wasn’t spared, priced at 39 AUD (around 27 USD).
Netizens swiftly took to social media platforms to vent their frustration, directing criticism towards both HYBE and LE SSERAFIM. Fans expressed that while they expected merchandise to come at a premium, the prices set by LE SSERAFIM seemed excessive, especially when compared to offerings from other artists.
Fans Demand Fair Pricing Amidst Outrage Over LE SSERAFIM’s Pop-Up Shop Pricing, Will HYBE and LE SSERAFIM Rethink Strategies?
The outrage stemmed from the perception that such exorbitant prices could potentially exclude fans with limited financial means from accessing official merchandise. Many felt that merch should be reasonably priced to ensure it remains accessible to a broader audience of supporters.
The disappointment expressed by fans underscores the importance of considering the affordability of merchandise in fandom culture. While fans are often willing to invest in products related to their favorite artists, there is a limit to what they deem acceptable in terms of pricing.
In response to the backlash, it remains to be seen whether HYBE and LE SSERAFIM will address the concerns raised by fans and potentially reevaluate their pricing strategies for future merchandise releases.
