Amidst the ongoing controversy, ILLIT has been attracting attention and gaining momentum online due to similarities in concept, music, aesthetics, and other aspects to NewJeans. As a result, the group is facing accusations of plagiarism. Korean media has responded by consulting experts for their opinions on the situation.
A report was released by Korean news outlet Sports Kyunghyang on May 13, discussing the comparison between the groups.
In the report, it was revealed that ILLIT and NewJeans share similarities in terms of their poses, vibes, and concepts. It was also mentioned that both groups are part of the same multi-label company, consist of five members, and have songs with a similar fast-paced music style.
It also noted the similarities in their choreography, dreamy concepts, and frequent appearances at fashion brand events during their debuts.
Next, the focus shifted to comparing their albums. According to the report, music experts confirmed that there were indeed similarities between them. One expert even remarked, “The central element of an idol is the concept, and if the overall concept is alike, it could potentially be seen as infringement even if the specifics differ.”
A representative from a music agency also stated, “Even if a group with a similar concept debuts in March and another group from the same parent company promotes in April while the latter makes a comeback in May, it would simply be a scheduling mistake and not intentional.”
The report further stated that industry experts have asserted that NewJeans holds significant influence over ILLIT. Additionally, the experts highlighted that young people, who are the main consumers of K-pop, have noticed the similarities in concept between the two.
According to an anonymous visual artist, while parody and homage may be acceptable in creative work, directly copying originality should be condemned. When comparing the fonts and artwork of NewJeans and ILLIT’s albums, the artist believes it infringes on the unique efforts of the creators.
The specialist added, “This outcome is sufficient to strike a chord with both the general population and those who are involved in its creation.”
Additionally, a brand marketing manager emphasized that the issue was not solely due to similar ideas, and asserted that the process also involved tracing the formula for success used by NewJeans.
The expert stated that the dispute between these groups goes beyond a mere similarity in concept. According to the expert, ILLIT not only mimics NewJeans’ successful formula, but also copies it through tracing.
The statement persisted, stating, “I cannot shake the feeling that NewJeans’ formula for success was merely imitated from 1 to 10, to the Y2K theme, to the youthful atmosphere of being teenagers, to the enchanting pastel visuals, and HYBE’s marketing tactics.”
“The company HYBE appears to be rushing to mindlessly conform to a formula for success, disregarding the pride and conscience that is expected of a creator,”the statement continued. “It is concerning that this behavior can be associated with the creative ethics of the K-pop industry, not just ILLIT.”
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