In a statement on May 17, ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin accused HYBE of addressing plagiarism issues involving LE SSERAFIM by paying off foreign producers. Min stated, “Not only ILLIT but also LE SSERAFIM have faced numerous plagiarism controversies regarding the concepts and songs in their three albums. I heard from foreign producers and officials working with ADOR that they are discussing costs with HYBE for LE SSERAFIM’s songs due to plagiarism issues.”
This revelation prompted netizens to recall past plagiarism controversies involving LE SSERAFIM, sparking widespread criticism of HYBE. Comments from netizens included:
- “So that’s why the company earned a lot of money but doesn’t make much profit.”
- “HYBE is truly taking the lead in ruining K-pop.”
- “I guess this is why HYBE continues to plagiarize without shame. They will just pay anything off.”
- “They covered the situations up and said everything was ‘references,’ but anyone can see those instances were plagiarism.”
- “HYBE is really disgusting. Min Hee-jin, you are doing a good job.”
- “So everything is plagiarism…”
These allegations have intensified scrutiny of HYBE’s business practices, raising questions about ethical standards in the company and the broader K-pop industry. While HYBE has yet to respond to these specific claims, the controversy underscores ongoing tensions between HYBE and ADOR.
