The ADOR agency’s rising K-pop sensation, NewJeans, has been officially accused of copyright infringement by UK-based Wise Music Group.
The focus of the dispute is on NewJeans’ latest track “Bubble Gum,”which Wise Music Group claims contains unauthorized samples from Shakatak’s well-known song “Easier Said Than Done.”
The conflict was brought to attention in mid-June when Wise Music Group, the representative for Shakatak’s rights, sent an official Letter of Claim to ADOR, HYBE (its parent company), the Korea Music Copyright Association, and Sony Music Publishing Hong Kong Limited, among others.
The letter claims that “Bubble Gum,”written by 250, Oscar Bell, Sophie Simmons, and Gigi, bears clear resemblances to “Easier Said Than Done”without obtaining proper authorization.
As stated in the document, Wise Music Group requested prompt action which included stopping the use of “Bubble Gum,”revealing profits, altering rights, providing written assurances, and providing compensation for any damages.
The request imposed a strict seven-day deadline on ADOR to comply, or else risk facing legal consequences.
ADORN adamantly refuted the accusations in response.
“‘Bubble Gum’ did not use Shakatak’s composition without permission, and we requested a credible analysis report on this matter.”
-I ADORE
Upon receipt of the letter on June 17th, they promptly responded on June 21st, acknowledging the accusations of plagiarism made by Shakatak and challenging their claim. They also requested substantiating evidence to support the accusations.
The main point of contention centers on the alleged resemblances in melodic hooks, instrumentation, rhythmic patterns, tempo, and harmonic structure between the two songs.
Shakatak’s legal counsel emphasized these details in their communication, pointing out the striking similarity in tempo and harmonic rhythm between “Easier Said Than Done”and “Bubble Gum.”
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Despite being given a rebuttal and asked for additional evidence, Shakatak’s representatives have still not produced a comprehensive analysis report to support their claims, resulting in the legal situation remaining uncertain.
The controversy first emerged soon after “Bubble Gum”was released on April 27th, with fans and industry insiders noting similarities between the NewJeans track and Shakatak’s classic.
Shakatak’s initial acknowledgement of the similarities through their official account sparked a series of online discussions, ultimately leading to Wise Music Group taking formal legal action.
Shakatak’s legal representatives were contacted by Munhwa Ilbo for comment on ADOR’s response. However, as of publication, no reply had been received.
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