Belieflab vs. Min Hee-jin: The Inside Story of the 2 Billion Won Damages Suit?

The plagiarism controversy surrounding K-pop girl groups Ilit and NewJeans is attracting intense attention as it escalates into a legal battle. Believerlab, Ilit's agency, has filed a 2 billion won (approximately $1.5 million USD) damage suit against former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin. This is in response to Min's claim that Ilit's concept plagiarized NewJeans, a claim Believerlab strongly refutes, stating they will seek a legal judgment to reveal the truth.

Background of the Lawsuit: The Plagiarism Controversy Between NewJeans and Ilit

NewJeans / Source: ADOR

The plagiarism controversy began when former CEO Min Hee-jin, amid her conflict with HYBE in April, claimed that Believerlab's Ilit plagiarized NewJeans' debut concept, costumes, choreography, and visuals. Min claimed that this accusation led to retaliatory audits within HYBE, deepening the conflict.

The controversy intensified with the release of a whistleblower report from within HYBE. The whistleblower alleged that Ilit's creative director referenced NewJeans' planning documents, highlighting the striking similarities between the two groups' plans.

Believerlab vehemently denied the plagiarism claims, stating, "Ilit's branding strategy was finalized on July 21, 2023, while the planning documents mentioned by the whistleblower were shared on August 28th."

Believerlab Takes Strong Action

Aillet / Source: Belieflab

Believerlab CEO Kim Tae-ho officially addressed the situation during a National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit last month. He stated, "The claim that Ilit plagiarized NewJeans is false," adding that they are pursuing civil lawsuits and criminal complaints against former CEO Min Hee-jin.

Kim emphasized, "While adhering to the relevant procedures, we will clearly reveal through the court the materials and evidence that prove the falsehood of these claims." Believerlab demonstrates a strong resolve to dispel the plagiarism suspicions through this lawsuit and hold Min accountable for the company's losses resulting from her claims.

The Legal Battle for Truth

The Seoul Western District Court's 12th Civil Division is scheduled to hold the first hearing on January 10, 2025, to address this case. Believerlab is emphasizing Ilit's originality and arguing that the similarities between the planning documents for NewJeans and Ilit are unfounded.

While Min Hee-jin's side has not yet publicly revealed its detailed position, a fierce legal battle is expected concerning the connection between the conflict with HYBE and the plagiarism controversy.

Industry and Fan Perspectives

This lawsuit serves as a reminder of plagiarism controversies and issues of originality within the K-pop industry. Fans are expressing diverse opinions on the actual similarities between the concepts and plans of the two groups, and the legal ruling is likely to significantly impact the competitive structure among K-pop agencies.