More than six months after their EP “Crazy”, LE SSERAFIM is set to return with a new mini-album, “HOT”, scheduled for release on March 13, 2025. So far, the HYBE girl group has been unveiling teaser images and videos showcasing their new concept. However, these images and videos have led to accusations of plagiarism.
In particular, a topic recently emerged on the Korean forum Pann, comparing LE SSERAFIM’s teaser trailer for “HOT” to a promotional video from luxury fashion brand Mugler, starring model Anok Yai. In particular, a scene featuring Huh Yunjin crawling out of a black hole, a sequence that appears extremely visually similar to Mugler’s video.
As a result, netizens left comments such as below:
- Despite the plagiarism controversy, they’re still pushing hard for viral promotion.
- It’s exactly the same, what are you talking about?
- Is it the exact same sequence in the actual MV? That’s insane.
Additionally, some fans noted similarities between LE SSERAFIM’s faceless concept photos and scenes from Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” music video. In particular, the sun-faded “Espresso” lettering, which became a signature image of Carpenter’s 2024 summer hit, appears to have inspired LE SSERAFIM’s teaser images, leading to further speculations.
However, regarding the similarities with “Espresso”, some have defended LE SSERAFIM, claiming that the sun-burnt lettering is not an exclusive concept.
On the other hand, this isn’t the first time LE SSERAFIM has faced plagiarsim accusations, as the girl group’s “Crazy” EP concept was previously compared to aespa’s signature aesthetic. Additionally, LE SSERAFIM was previously accused of borrowing both musical and visual elements from pop singer Rosalía.
