Archive · 18 Jul 2025
ILLIT's Agency Denies Plagiarism Claims in Court
In a legal battle, ILLIT's agency is fighting accusations that their group copied NewJeans.
The agency is saying that it's not really copying since other groups, like GFriend, have done similar things before.
This is part of a larger fight, with ILLIT's agency wanting money because they feel their reputation has been hurt.
They are arguing that things like outfits and poses aren't new ideas.
The other side, led by Min Hee-Jin, thinks ILLIT copied NewJeans and that the public agrees.
BELIFT LAB, ILLIT's agency, refutes Min Hee-Jin's plagiarism claims in court.
The lawsuit, filed by BELIFT LAB, seeks damages of 2 billion KRW (approximately $1.45 million).
ILLIT's legal team argued that alleged copied elements are not unique to NewJeans.
The agency presented examples of similar concepts from earlier K-pop groups like GFriend.
Min Hee-Jin's attorney previously stated plagiarism concerns were raised by the public and others.
- Who
- BELIFT LAB (ILLIT's agency) and Min Hee-Jin, former ADOR CEO, are involved.
- What
- A legal battle between BELIFT LAB and Min Hee-Jin regarding plagiarism accusations.
- When
- The third hearing of the lawsuit was held on July 18.
- Where
- Seoul Western District Court’s Civil Division 12.
- Why
- BELIFT LAB seeks damages for reputational harm caused by plagiarism claims.
BELIFT LAB (ILLIT's Agency)
Min Hee-Jin
Plagiarism Claims
BELIFT LAB (ILLIT's Agency)
Similarities are coincidental, not evidence of copying. They are not saying NewJeans copied anyone.
Min Hee-Jin
ILLIT copied NewJeans’ debut concept, outfits, choreography, and visual direction. Concerns were raised by the public.
- Plaintiff
- BELIFT LAB
- Defendant
- Min Hee-Jin
- Lawsuit purpose
- Damages for reputational harm
- Damages sought
- 2 billion KRW ($1.45 million approx.)
- Key Accusation
- ILLIT copied NewJeans