Belift Lab CEO Responds to I’LL-IT Copying Allegations: “We Did Not Mimic NewJeans”

On November 11, reports surfaced highlighting striking similarities between the planning documents for Belift Lab’s upcoming girl group, I’LL-IT, and those of the popular group NewJeans. This revelation has intensified existing controversies within the K-pop industry.

In a recent interview with OSEN at HYBE’s headquarters, Belift Lab’s CEO, Kim Tae-ho, addressed several critical issues, including these document similarities and the explanation video released back in June. Here’s a detailed look at CEO Kim’s insights.

Interview Highlights with CEO Kim Tae-ho

Influence of NewJeans

Q: How much influence did NewJeans have during the creation of I’LL-IT?

Kim responded by acknowledging the significant impact NewJeans has had on the K-pop landscape. He remarked, “No group that has debuted after NewJeans can claim they were not influenced by them to some extent.” Despite this influence, he asserted that Belift Lab never thought the success enjoyed by NewJeans could be easily replicated by mirroring their approach. He emphasized that I’LL-IT did not replicate any ideas from NewJeans or their creative director, Min Hee-jin, underscoring that evidence exists to clarify this, but detailed public scrutiny is impractical.

Support Within HYBE

Q: There are allegations that I’LL-IT has not received adequate support from HYBE compared to NewJeans. Could you comment on this?

Kim acknowledged the disparity in support levels, noting that while NewJeans has benefited from exceptional resources—like having their own exclusive styling area—other artists, including I’LL-IT, are sharing communal spaces. He suggested it’s up to HYBE’s community to interpret this as preferential treatment.

Impact on I’LL-IT Members

Q: How are I’LL-IT members managing amid these challenges?

According to Kim, I’LL-IT has faced significant hurdles, especially with the timing of their recovery and promotion coinciding with ENHYPEN’s comeback. He mentioned, “The group has shown remarkable resilience through this tough period, often placing the well-being of the staff over their own.” Initially, the members grappled with the unfolding controversies but have grown stronger and more united, fostering a sense of determination moving forward.

Future Aspirations

Kim outlined a twofold goal for I’LL-IT’s current promotion: to firmly establish their unique identity and message while breaking free from the label of merely being an offshoot of “Magnetic,” a previous hit that could potentially stifle the group’s diversification and growth.

Closing Remarks

Q: Any final thoughts you’d like to share?

Kim expressed deep concern for the ongoing legal disputes affecting I’LL-IT. He emphasized that the continuous emergence of these conflicts during critical promotional phases is “unacceptable.” As the group prepares for important events including a new music video and performances at the MAMA Awards this week, he remarked on the malicious nature of these baseless allegations, which could severely undermine the group’s efforts.

Kim reiterated the gravity of the situation, where the careers of the five members are at stake, noting that even small delays in K-pop can have significant ramifications due to the competitive nature of the industry. He lamented the impact on I’LL-IT’s dedicated fanbase, who have remained steadfast in their support amidst the controversy.

In a counteractive move, former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin accused I’LL-IT of imitating NewJeans’ concept, which has led to internal whistleblowing and calls for audits. In retaliation, Belift Lab has initiated legal action against Min Hee-jin, charging her with defamation and obstruction of business, while also pursuing a civil case.

Source: Daum

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