QWER teams up with Bawige to shape a cheering style that breaks from traditional K-pop norms. During their busking tour, fans built spontaneous and energetic responses without relying on official tools or guides. This fresh dynamic blends band spirit and idol passion in ways never seen before.
QWER and Bawige Create a New Kind of Cheering Style
QWER is managed by 3Y CORPORATION, a brand-new agency with little experience in the entertainment industry. Because of this, they never introduced typical K-pop elements like official lightsticks or structured fan responses. Eventually, QWER came up with their own simple cheering cues, hoping fans would follow along. But most fans, known as Bawige, didn’t adopt these cues seriously. Over time, a unique and informal cheering style began to take shape—something unplanned and not led by the agency, but naturally formed by the fans themselves.
Busking Tour Inspires the Rise of a Unique Cheering Style with QWER and Bawige
On April 15, QWER kicked off their busking tour in Jecheon. They aimed for more direct fan interaction in a casual setting. In Haenam on April 19, a group of fans arrived late after traveling from Seoul by chartered bus. They couldn’t get close to the stage because they had missed the main entrance window. Instead of pushing forward, they stayed at the back and enjoyed the show in their own carefree way. That relaxed mood continued at the next show on April 23 at Nodeulseom in Seoul. The audience naturally split into two groups—those near the stage and those hanging back to relax. No one planned this divide, but it worked well. Each group enjoyed the performance without getting in each other’s way.
QWER Performances Bring Out a Wild and Joyful Cheering Style from Bawige
During the final song T.B.H at Nodeulseom, the fans at the back brought a burst of playful energy to the performance. They started moving in a wide circle, creating what’s known in rock concerts as a circle pit—something rarely seen at K-pop events. The movement was disorganized at first, but the mood was so joyful that it hardly mattered. Eventually, one fan began leading the group, and others joined in as they launched into a slam, bouncing into one another with laughter and energy. This marked the first time such behavior had ever appeared in a K-pop setting, but it didn’t feel out of place. QWER, being a band and an idol group at the same time, naturally invites fans to blend the intensity of rock culture with the enthusiasm of idol fandom.
Evolving Cheering Styles and the Possibility of Introducing Otagei
After the show, some fans floated the idea of introducing otagei—a stylized fan dance rooted in idol culture. Originally made up of simple and synchronized gestures, otagei has become more aggressive over time and is now sometimes criticized for disrupting performances. If Bawige ever decides to include it in future shows, they’ll likely need to rethink how to make it feel cooperative and less intrusive. Many fans are excited by the idea of trying new things, as long as the energy fits QWER’s musical vibe. Even the band members mentioned on social media that the fan-driven slam during T.B.H left a powerful impression on them.
Cheering Style Evolves as QWER and Bawige Look Toward the Future
The success of the Seoul performance sparked discussions about a second round of busking, with hopes of visiting new and bigger cities. Performing in urban areas where QWER hasn’t played yet could open the door to fresh audiences and wider exposure. No matter where they go, Bawige will undoubtedly bring their creativity and joyful chaos, crafting yet another version of their cheering culture. As the bond between QWER and Bawige deepens, their connection continues to grow not through polished systems but through spontaneous, meaningful moments shared on the ground.

Thank you so much for reading this post! I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share them in the comments!
I used to think that the best and only way to fully enjoy a concert is to do whatever it takes to find my spot closest to the stage, but I was wrong, especially from my experience in both Haenam and Seoul. Wishing all the success to come towards QWER! Was a pleasure reading your article too 🙂