LE SSERAFIM’s Comeback Faces Repeated Plagiarism Accusations

LE SSERAFIM Faces Plagiarism Allegations Ahead of New Mini-Album Release

After a six-month hiatus following their EP “Crazy, ”LE SSERAFIM, the popular girl group under HYBE, is gearing up to release their highly anticipated mini-album titled “HOT” on March 13, 2025. In the lead-up to this release, the group has been actively sharing a series of teaser images and videos that showcase their fresh concept. However, these promotional materials have sparked controversy, leading to accusations of plagiarism.

Recently, a discussion arose on the Korean forum Pann, where users began comparing LE SSERAFIM’s teaser trailer for “HOT” with a promotional video from the luxury fashion brand Mugler, featuring model Anok Yai. Notably, the trailer includes a striking scene of member Huh Yunjin crawling out of a black hole, which bears a striking resemblance to Mugler’s visuals.

In reaction to the controversy, netizens expressed their disapproval with comments like:

“Despite the plagiarism controversy, they’re still pushing hard for viral promotion.”
“It’s exactly the same, what are you talking about?”
“Is it the exact same sequence in the actual MV? That’s insane.”

Further complicating matters, fans have pointed out potential similarities between LE SSERAFIM’s teaser images and scenes from Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso”music video. The distinctive, sun-faded “Espresso”lettering, which became synonymous with Carpenter’s summer hit in 2024, appears to have influenced LE SSERAFIM’s promotional content, leading to heightened speculation.

🚨 [BREAKING NEWS] #LE_SSERAFIM Have been seen Plagiarizing “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter for their “HOT” Concept Photos pic.twitter.com/ekQJ3nyg6G

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— jm = 🐖 (@BTS_FLOP__) February 23, 2025

In light of these allegations concerning “Espresso, ”some supporters of LE SSERAFIM have defended the group, arguing that the burnt-sun lettering is a common motif not exclusive to any single artist.

This incident is not the first time LE SSERAFIM has encountered plagiarism allegations. Previously, the visual concept of their “Crazy”EP faced scrutiny as it was compared to the distinctive aesthetic associated with another girl group, aespa. Additionally, the group was under fire for alleged musical and visual similarities with pop artist Rosalía.