A post on the online platform TheQoo has generated significant discussion, amassing nearly 50,000 views. Users are expressing concerns about the striking similarities between the concepts of two popular K-pop groups, NCT DREAM and SEVENTEEN.
Highlighting the Similarities
NCT DREAM’s first repackaged album, Hello Future, released in June 2021, features a title track that quickly ascended to viral status thanks to its uplifting sounds. This release has become a significant highlight for NCT DREAM. Fast forward to October 2023, and SEVENTEEN’s new single, God of Music, is drawing notable comparisons due to its infectious energy, sound, and overall vibe. This resemblance has prompted fans to question whether SEVENTEEN’s artistic direction may have been too heavily influenced by NCT DREAM’s earlier work.
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Netizen Reactions
Fan reactions reveal a mix of frustration and disappointment. Translated snippets from the discussion thread highlight varied sentiments:
- “Do they have no pride?”
- “This isn’t just about the album; originality is lacking in the concept execution.”
- “HYBE seems to only know how to replicate ideas instead of innovating.”
- “The use of the same director suggests a clear reference to Hello Future.”
- “It was so similar that I had to do a double-take.”
- “Is there nothing original left? They keep working with the same creative teams.”
- “Multiple overlapping elements make this hard to overlook.”
Creative Overlaps: A Trend in K-pop?
Compounding these concerns is the recent controversy involving LE SSERAFIM, which faced accusations of mimicking Red Velvet’s style. While some argue that such overlaps are merely coincidental—resulting from both groups employing the same photographer—fans express unease over HYBE’s pattern of utilizing similar creative personnel to craft concepts that resonate with audiences.
Moreover, it has been reported that director Shin Woo-seok rejected offers from other groups after his work on NewJeans’ Ditto to mitigate potential disputes over originality. Consequently, the decision to enlist the same director as SM Entertainment has heightened criticism of HYBE’s approach.
The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Imitation
The striking likeness between SEVENTEEN’s and NCT DREAM’s artistic concepts ignites a vital conversation within the K-pop community regarding the delicate distinction between inspiration and imitation. In an industry where standout concepts can significantly impact a group’s success, fans ponder whether these parallels signify mere coincidence or if they reflect deeper trends in K-pop’s production philosophy.
Source: TheQoo, KrB
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