NewJeans "Bubble Gum" Plagiarism Controversy Deepens...
British Music Group Announces Legal Action
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The plagiarism controversy surrounding the girl group NewJeans' hit song "Bubble Gum" is deepening. As Britain's Wise Music Group announces legal action, NewJeans' agency ADOR strongly denies the allegations, stating that there was no unauthorized use.

Wise Music Group delivered an official protest letter in mid-June, naming ADOR, HYBE, the Korea Music Copyright Association, Sony Music Publishing Hong Kong Limited (Korea branch), and four others as recipients. The letter alleges that "Bubble Gum" has violated copyrights by using Shakatak's "Easier Said Than Done" without permission, demanding the cessation of the song's use and compensation for damages.

Shakatak specifically pointed out similarities between the two songs.

They cited identical rhythms and notes, similar melodic hooks, the use of electronic guitar and bass, and nearly identical tempos (104 BPM vs. 105 BPM) as evidence of unauthorized use.

In response, ADOR stated, "We responded to Shakatak's notice on June 21, clarifying that 'Bubble Gum' did not use Shakatak's composition without permission and requested an authoritative analysis report from them."
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They further mentioned,
"Although Shakatak replied that they would soon provide the report, it has not yet been received. The burden of proof lies with the party raising the issue to provide a report demonstrating plagiarism."

A music copyright expert explained, "To determine plagiarism, an objective and professional analysis of the similarities between the two songs is necessary. Simply having similar tempo or harmony is not enough to definitively conclude plagiarism."

This incident can be seen as an example of the potential copyright disputes that may arise as K-pop's global influence grows.

Particularly for internationally acclaimed groups like NewJeans, such disputes can be highly sensitive.

Industry insiders commented,

"These plagiarism controversies can be seen as growing pains in the development of the K-pop industry. Moving forward, thorough copyright management and the creation of original and innovative music will be essential."

With significant differences in the positions of both parties, the industry is keenly watching how this issue will unfold.
There are concerns about the potential impact on the K-pop industry should Wise Music Group proceed with their legal action.

Meanwhile, NewJeans' "Bubble Gum" has gained immense popularity both domestically and internationally since its release, topping various music charts. The song is praised for its unique musical style and catchy melody, further elevating the status of K-pop in the global music market.

This incident is likely to highlight the importance of copyright issues within the K-pop industry.
The industry's focus will be on how K-pop artists, who are active in the global market, will prepare for and respond to such issues, as well as how they will ensure creativity and originality in their music.