The K-pop world is buzzing as rookie group ILLIT’s agency, BELIFT LAB, has pulled in big names like BTS, Jennie, and aespa to defend against plagiarism accusations from former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin.
Min Hee Jin’s Strong Allegations
Min Hee Jin, known for her creative vision with NewJeans, has accused ILLIT of more than just inspiration. She claims the rookie group outright copied NewJeans’ unique hanbok concept, from styling and lighting to set design and even the members’ poses.
Her legal team highlighted how ILLIT’s debut strategy mirrored NewJeans’, pointing to high-profile fashion event appearances. Fans online even noted the similarities, with many mistaking ILLIT’s content for NewJeans updates.
Beyond visuals, Min Hee Jin also flagged choreography, alleging that ILLIT borrowed specific dance sequences from NewJeans’ hit tracks like “Attention” and “Ditto.”
BELIFT LAB Fires Back
BELIFT LAB, which also falls under HYBE, strongly denies these accusations. They argue that ILLIT’s core concept, a “fantasy princess meets magical girl” theme, is distinct from NewJeans’ retro Y2K aesthetic.
They also pointed out their differing debut strategies. ILLIT was formed through the survival show “R U Next?,” allowing fans to follow their journey from the start. NewJeans, conversely, launched with a surprise drop, releasing music videos without prior teasers, a completely different approach.
Common K-Pop Elements, Not Copying
Regarding the hanbok controversy, BELIFT LAB stated that palace-themed hanbok shoots are a long-standing tradition in K-pop and not exclusive to NewJeans. They called the claim “baseless” and a disregard for the genre’s visual history.
The agency extended this argument to choreography, explaining that moves like hair whips, arm rolls, and sitting poses are standard across the industry. They cited a wide array of K-pop acts, including BTS, Jennie, aespa, G-Dragon, IVE, and ITZY, who have all utilized similar movements.
BELIFT LAB warned that allowing one group to claim ownership over common K-pop elements would stifle creativity and harm fair competition within the industry.
The Bigger HYBE-ADOR Dispute
This dispute between ILLIT and Min Hee Jin is part of a larger, ongoing conflict between HYBE and its former ADOR CEO. Min Hee Jin was recently cleared of breach of trust accusations by the court, though HYBE has objected to the non-prosecution decision.
Adding another layer to the drama, HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk is currently under investigation by financial watchdogs for alleged illegal profits related to HYBE’s 2020 IPO. This complex web of legal battles continues to unfold, pulling various artists into the spotlight despite their indirect involvement.
- Min Hee Jin accuses ILLIT of copying NewJeans’ hanbok concept, debut strategy, and choreography.
- BELIFT LAB argues ILLIT’s concept and debut approach are distinct from NewJeans’.
- The agency claims hanbok shoots and common dance moves are standard in K-pop, citing BTS, Jennie, and aespa as examples.
- The dispute is part of a broader, ongoing legal battle between HYBE and Min Hee Jin.
As the legal proceedings continue, the K-pop community watches closely to see how these accusations and defenses will impact the careers of the artists involved.
