In recent news from June 11, 2024, music label Belift Lab released a video on YouTube addressing allegations of plagiarism against their artists, particularly ILLIT. The video further stirred controversy by suggesting that the group NewJeans might have copied styles from other K-pop groups, highlighting acts such as NMIXX and Jeans. A focal point of their argument was the supposed imitation of BLACKPINK‘s distinctive tennis skirt and uniform look by NewJeans.
Belift Lab’s proof came in the form of images juxtaposing NewJeans and BLACKPINK’s apparel. Below is the comparison they presented:
However, a previous YG Entertainment creative director who oversaw BLACKPINK’s early development and debut, countered the accusation. On Instagram, he shared a screenshot of the mentioned allegation, succinctly remarking “totally different” on his story.
Moreover, some of the fanbase highlighted that K-Pop’s iconic tennis skirts were popularized by the group f(x) during their Pink Tape era. Notably, Min Hee Jin, who is connected with NewJeans, was at the helm of Pink Tape.
Belift Lab…what are they thinking by claiming NewJeans imitated BLACKPINK’s tennis skirts? Trends were set by f(x) in 2013, directed by Min Hee Jin. pic.twitter.com/07RlZn387I
— 수파두파 (@SUPADUPAMY) June 10, 2024
Belift Lab’s claim of NewJeans plagiarizing BLACKPINK’s look is questionable. It was f(x) who made tennis skirts mainstream back in 2013, and Min Hee Jin directed that era.
— SUPADUPAMY
The narrative that NewJeans copied BLACKPINK has been widely refuted, even by the creatives behind BLACKPINK themselves. Additional claims by Belift Lab were also put forth in their controversial video.
BELIFT LAB Makes Desperate Attempt At Clearing ILLIT’s Plagiarism Allegations And Goes After NewJeans In “Bizarre” Video
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FAQs: Belift Lab and NewJeans Controversy
What is Belift Lab being accused of?
Belift Lab is being accused of plagiarizing various K-pop groups’ concepts, most notably BLACKPINK’s tennis skirt and uniform aesthetic, as claimed in their recent YouTube video.
Who is refuting Belift Lab’s plagiarism accusations against NewJeans?
A former YG Entertainment creative director who worked with BLACKPINK during their debut rebuffed the plagiarism allegations, suggesting the outfits were “totally different”.
Which group originally popularized tennis skirts in K-Pop?
Tennis skirts were popularized by the group f(x) during their 2013 ‘Pink Tape’ era, according to fans and historical trend reports.
Who directed f(x)’s ‘Pink Tape’ era and what is their connection to NewJeans?
Min Hee Jin was the creative behind f(x)’s ‘Pink Tape’ era. She is currently associated with NewJeans, leading some to attribute the continuation of her signature style to the group.
Where can I find the video by Belift Lab regarding the plagiarism allegations?
The video can be accessed through the embedded link in the above article, or directly on Belift Lab’s YouTube channel.