LE SSERAFIM Faces Accusations of Copying Red Velvet’s “Chill Kill”Concept
Recently, fans have voiced concerns online regarding LE SSERAFIM’s latest teasers, alleging that they closely mirror Red Velvet’s renowned “Chill Kill” concept. This controversy ignited on X (formerly Twitter) and quickly gained momentum, leading to intense discussions on popular Korean forums like TheQoo, where a specific post accumulated over 50,000 views and numerous reactions.
Background on the Controversy
The heart of the matter lies in LE SSERAFIM’s promotional images for the Japanese version of their upcoming single “Crazy,” slated for a December 11 release. Their teasers depict members donning striking black-and-white outfits within a vintage yet eerie backdrop, prompting comparisons to the acclaimed “Chill Kill” theme debuted by Red Velvet in 2023.
Dive into the Details
A post titled “LE SSERAFIM’s Japanese Comeback Concept Mirrors Red Velvet’s ‘Chill Kill’” meticulously outlines the parallels between the two. The author included side-by-side visuals depicting similar settings such as spooky staircases, dimly lit rooms, and even shared props. This compelling evidence led many to question whether the similarities were coincidental or indicative of a lack of originality.
Key Observations from the Post
Critics noted that while Red Velvet’s “Chill Kill” concept garnered significant praise for its innovative design and atmosphere, the striking resemblance in LE SSERAFIM’s teaser images seemed undeniable. A prominent comment pointed out, “Regardless of shared artistic vision, a company must ensure that its concepts maintain distinctiveness. However, it’s notorious that HYBE often blends visuals reminiscent of SM’s creations.”
Fan Reactions and Discussion
The discourse transcended mere observations, as netizens expressed disappointment regarding recurring patterns within HYBE’s group visual themes. Below are some reactions captured from the TheQoo discussion:
- “Is using the same photographer really an excuse? Such overlaps are too frequent to ignore.”
- “This copying feels embarrassing — where is the originality?”
- “The production quality appears significantly inferior, it’s clear.”
- “Why impose this specific concept for ‘Crazy’? It feels out of place.”
- “At first glance, I mistook them for Red Velvet. The visual appeal isn’t the same.”
Defending LE SSERAFIM
While some fans rallied to defend LE SSERAFIM, attributing the similarities to shared photographer Cho Gi Seok, others countered that it falls upon HYBE’s creative team to avoid concept overlaps—especially given Red Velvet’s unique market positioning characterized by horror-inspired aesthetics.
A Pattern of Controversy
This incident is not without precedent; accusations of mimicking SM Entertainment concepts have historically plagued HYBE. Some elements from the “Crazy” teaser were even likened to themes in Red Velvet’s “Birthday” trailer, suggesting that this isn’t merely an isolated incident.
The Bigger Picture
This ongoing discourse highlights a greater issue within the K-pop industry, where competition is fierce and originality is paramount. Fans fervently demand distinct concepts that reflect individuality, putting significant pressure on artists and companies to innovate.
For further reading on this controversy, visit the original discussions on KBIZoom.
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