Record-Breaking Numbers

ILLIT's latest Japanese single, “I Got Your Back,” has sparked a heated debate among fans and critics alike. The music video, released under BELIFT LAB, has been accused of copying the style and aesthetic of NewJeans' debut single, “Supernatural.” Released in 2024, “Supernatural” was a groundbreaking hit for HYBE's latest girl group sensation.

The controversy surrounding ILLIT's music video is not an isolated incident. In 2024, during the public feud between HYBE and Min Hee Jin, accusations of plagiarism were levied against ILLIT by former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. BELIFT LAB denied these allegations, taking legal action against Min Hee Jin for making false claims.

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Fan Sentiment

NewJeans fans have been vocal about their concerns regarding the similarities between ILLIT's music video and “Supernatural.” Some have taken to social media platforms like X to express their disappointment, with one fan exclaiming, “oh god here they go 😭😭” Another user chimed in, stating that the plagiarism allegations were “clear as day omfg. BELIFT when I catch you-” The backlash has been intense, with fans calling for greater originality and creativity from HYBE's artists.

In contrast, some fans have come to ILLIT's defense, arguing that the retro-inspired visuals are a common trend in K-pop and not necessarily indicative of plagiarism. However, this divide has only served to fuel the controversy, with both sides accusing each other of unfair treatment.

Global Impact

The ongoing feud between HYBE and Min Hee Jin has had far-reaching consequences for the K-pop industry as a whole. The public's perception of BELIFT LAB and ILLIT's originality has been called into question, raising concerns about the emphasis on creativity and authenticity in modern K-pop.

Meanwhile, NewJeans' success has only continued to soar, with fans eagerly anticipating their next release. The group's dedication to pushing boundaries and breaking records has set a new standard for HYBE's artists, and it remains to be seen whether ILLIT will be able to rise to the challenge.