Belift Lab, the label managing ILLIT, announced on May 22nd legal proceedings against ex-CEO Min Hee-jin. “Today (May 22nd), we have lodged a legal complaint against CEO Min Hee-jin for her unilateral and groundless statements that have been detrimental to our company and our artists, with allegations of business obstruction and defamation,” the company stated.
The record label countered “the accusations of plagiarism regarding our artist ILLIT, which were put forward by Min Hee-jin, are baseless,” and emphasized “We’ve handed over proof to the judicial authorities confirming the falsehood of these claims. While it might take time, we are committed to uncovering the truth through legal means.”
Belift Lab addressed the issue of IP (intellectual property) plagiarism, stressing that such allegations should be measured against objective standards and fair judicial practices, rather than through biased and individual judgments. The label expressed deep regret over the situation where “the hard work and creations of our associated artists and staff are being undermined due to irresponsible speculation and false allegations.”
Furthermore, they highlighted the collateral damage faced by ILLIT, stating, “The group members are facing intense scrutiny, unjust criticisms and personal attacks, even though they are not involved in this issue directly.” Belift Lab appealed for restraint, “We earnestly request the public to avoid engaging in hurtful behavior such as random criticisms, libel, circulating misinformation, and defamatory statements against the artist.”
Following HYBE’s accusations against Min Hee-jin concerning her endeavors to seize control of the company and breach of trust, the ex-CEO shot back, revealing her concerns about ILLIT imitating NewJeans, which resulted in an audit conducted on ADOR. At her emergency press conference last month, Min Hee-jin remarked, “I am not smearing ILLIT. This issue lies with the adults. They overly replicated our production model.”
In the aftermath, ILLIT members have borne the brunt of public outrage, being labeled the “group that copied NewJeans.” Wonhee, one of the members, was seen on a live broadcast addressing and blocking the harsh comments.
FAQs
What is Belift Lab’s legal complaint against Min Hee-jin about?
Belift Lab has legally accused Min Hee-jin of business obstruction and defamation, claiming she has made false assertions that are damaging to their company and artists.
What does Belift Lab say about the plagiarism allegations?
Belift Lab has denied any plagiarism on the part of their artist, ILLIT, affirming these claims to be false and providing evidence to judicial authorities in support of their position.
What is the impact of this legal dispute on ILLIT?
ILLIT has been subjected to negative comments and personal attacks, with members being unfairly branded as having plagiarized another group, NewJeans.
Has Min Hee-jin responded to the allegations?
Min Hee-jin has defended her actions, stating at a press conference that her concerns were about the adults involved and the overt emulation of NewJeans’ production style by ILLIT.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed by Belift Lab against Min Hee-jin represents not just a legal battle over alleged business obstruction and defamation, but also an intricate dispute involving the reputations and wellbeing of artists in the competitive music industry. While Belift Lab seeks justice through legal avenues to clear their and ILLIT’s names from plagiarism accusations, the direct impact on the group members and their mental health is undeniable. It underscores the significant consequences that such allegations, whether true or false, can have on all parties involved. The entertainment industry and its audience shall await the outcome of this matter, which serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between safeguarding intellectual property rights and maintaining the dignity and respect for creators and artists.