Stray Kids Fan Club Membership Costs Spark Backlash in 2026

The Stray Kids membership controversy 2026 has sparked heated debate among fans after JYP Entertainment announced the pricing for the STAY 6th fan club membership.

With total costs reaching nearly 50,000 KRW including membership, kit, and shipping, fans expressed frustration over affordability, restrictions, and the company’s lack of response.

Fan Complaints About Pricing

• Fans compared Stray Kids’ membership costs to BTS, noting that BTS membership + kit + shipping totals around 20,000 KRW, while Stray Kids’ equivalent exceeds 50,000 KRW.
• Many argued that the price hike feels like “telling students not to be fans if they can’t afford it.”
• Overseas fans criticized the lack of meaningful benefits compared to the high costs.

Age Restriction Controversy

• On the day sales opened, fans under 14 years old were blocked from purchasing memberships.
• This led to accusations that JYP was ignoring younger fans, who often make up a large portion of the fandom.
• Some interpreted this as the company dismissing student fans who had already voiced concerns about affordability.

Emotional Reactions and Trust Issues

• Long-time fans expressed fatigue and disappointment, saying rising costs across MD, concerts, and memberships were pushing them away.
• Others warned that while immediate “mass quitting” may not happen, long-term dissatisfaction could lead to fandom erosion.
• Some even mentioned selling JYP stock due to loss of trust in the company’s management.

Broader Criticism of JYP

• Fans accused JYP of passing operational costs onto memberships instead of managing expenses.
• Criticism included questions about whether offline pop-ups and MD sales were truly cost-saving measures.
• Several posts argued that JYP’s handling of the situation could damage Stray Kids’ fandom loyalty during a crucial period.

❓ FAQ Section

Q: Why are fans upset about Stray Kids’ membership fees? A: Costs are significantly higher than other groups, with fewer perceived benefits.

Q: What additional controversy arose during sales? A: Fans under 14 were blocked from purchasing memberships, sparking backlash.

Q: What is the long-term concern among fans? A: That rising costs and poor communication will gradually erode fandom loyalty.

🧾 Author Information

Author: Allen Shin Position: Editor, Kpopbreaking.com Email: worldpopkorea@gmail.com Last Updated: February 7, 2026

🏁 Final Summary

The Stray Kids membership controversy 2026 highlights growing tension between fans and JYP Entertainment. With high costs, age restrictions, and perceived lack of benefits, many STAYs feel alienated. Unless addressed, the issue risks long-term damage to fandom trust and loyalty.

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