The plagiarism controversy between ILLIT and NewJeans has been a key factor in the conflict between Min Hee-jin and HYBE. Last year, Min claimed that ILLIT copied NewJeans’ style across all entertainment activities, including hair, makeup, costumes, choreography, photos, videos, and events, leading to labels such as “Min Hee-jin copy” and “NewJeans imitation.”
She asserted that ILLIT’s debut, only eight months after NewJeans, was rushed to mimic the group.
In response, Belift Lab, ILLIT’s agency under HYBE, refuted the claims and filed a lawsuit seeking damages of 2 billion KRW (approx 1.4 million USD) and 500 million KRW (approx 348,000 USD).
During a court hearing on January 10, Min’s legal team claimed, “ILLIT debuted eight months after NewJeans,” adding that plagiarism concerns were raised by the public, media, and even parents of ILLIT members.
However, investigative reports revealed discrepancies in these claims. NewJeans debuted in August 2022, while ILLIT released their debut album in March 2024—a gap of 1 year and 7 months, not 8 months. This incorrect assertion raises questions about the accuracy of Min’s arguments.
Additionally, Belift Lab’s lawyers criticized Min for using the term “plagiarism” to unfairly target ILLIT, arguing that it caused significant harm to the newly debuted group. ILLIT’s representatives stressed the emotional damage inflicted on the group’s young members.
Min’s legal team dismissed these concerns as emotional appeals, reiterating their claim that ILLIT’s debut timing indicated a rushed copying of NewJeans.
The issue of ILLIT’s debut timing is central to Min’s plagiarism accusations. While some observers chalk up the error to a misunderstanding, many view it as a serious factual inaccuracy that could impact the court’s perspective on whether ILLIT caused significant harm by allegedly copying NewJeans’ concept.
Adding to the controversy is Min’s handling of unfavorable press. In prior instances, she has threatened legal action against media outlets instead of offering clear explanations.
The term “New-I-LE” that appeared in HYBE’s music industry report, is another point of contention. According to HYBE, this refers to NewJeans, IVE, and LE SSERAFIM, prominent 4th-generation girl groups, and does not denote ILLIT, as the term predated ILLIT’s formation.
These revelations further undermine Min Hee-jin’s plagiarism allegations, which could significantly damage ILLIT’s reputation and career trajectory.
Min’s claims, given their potential impact, required precision and evidence. However, her arguments—beginning with the incorrect debut timeline—have raised doubts about their credibility. This critical error may prove detrimental to her case.
