The Inconvenient Truth About SM Girl Group Fans and Plagiarism Accusations

“Why do SM stans so quickly grab other idols by the hair over plagiarism — but freeze up when it’s their own group?”

That’s the central question a growing number of K-pop fans are asking after a string of plagiarism allegations involving SM girl groups, specifically Red Velvet and aespa, stirred controversy online.

The twist? While fans of these groups have historically been vocal in calling out similar cases from other agencies, they often go silent, deflect, or justify when accusations are aimed at their own “main” artists.

Take Red Velvet, for example. Their Dumb Dumb era faced scrutiny when fans noticed their styling and concept closely resembled previous designs from independent Western fashion designers. Yet, online debates quickly turned defensive, with fans claiming “coincidence” or blaming stylists — while similar incidents involving non-SM groups are often labeled “blatant copying” by the same fandoms.

Then there’s aespa, who’ve now faced at least three major plagiarism accusations in less than two years, from Savage’s concept art to recent teaser images and even Inkigayo stage designs. Artists and designers have gone public, pointing out stark similarities and unauthorized use of their work. Still, much of the SM fandom brushes these off or redirects blame to SM’s creative team — a luxury rarely afforded to rival groups.

In short: When other companies are involved, fans demand accountability. But when it’s SM groups under fire, the narrative shifts to “they didn’t know,” “it’s just inspiration,” or “you’re just jealous.”

It raises the question: Can K-pop fans truly call out plagiarism if they’re not ready to hold their own favorites to the same standard?

This “selective outrage” not only weakens the overall conversation around artistic integrity in K-pop, but also risks discrediting valid concerns from designers, artists, and creators who are affected — regardless of which idol is involved.

• Aren’t LOOΠΔ fans the best when it comes to grabbing other idols by the hair? So what do you want me to do — I just got triggered and lost it, okay?
• At least SM settles with the original creators when plagiarism controversies pop up~ lol. But your company…
• SM stans have always been the kings of double standards, lol.
• SM fans are hilarious, lol. Looks like they’ve had a mirror therapy session.
• SM is indeed the original company when it comes to plagiarism.

Maybe it’s time to acknowledge that no fandom is immune to plagiarism accusations and that accountability shouldn’t depend on which logo is on the album cover.