Amid backlash, ILLIT is now being accused of copying NewJeans's "Ditto" stage outfits.
ILLIT's reputation has taken a massive hit, despite debuting just a month ago. Following their encore stages, where they showcased unstable and shaky vocals, ILLIT received major backlash from Korean netizens for being unable to perform their own song.
Things only got worse after Min Hee Jin accused BELIFT Lab and HYBE Labels of copying NewJeans's formula for ILLIT's debut. Though Min Hee Jin stated she did not blame the ILLIT members, the title "stolen group" stuck with the group.
With their backlash, more eyes are on ILLIT than ever. On May 12, 2024, a post titled "ILLIT copying the 'Ditto' uniform concept" was shared with the South Korean online community forum Nate Pann. The post included photos of both girl groups.
The photo from ILLIT is from their debut showcase. In their group photo, the members are wearing school uniforms with oversized blazers, sweaters, and jackets. They are also seen in high socks and black leather shoes.
NewJeans's photo was taken backstage at a music show. In their outfits, they are also wearing uniforms with oversized blazers, high socks, and leather shoes. The biggest difference is that NewJeans's jackets are brown, while ILLIT's are black.
Additionally, the original poster shared a photo card of NewJeans's Minji and ILLIT's Minju. Both girls are seen wearing the school uniforms. They also added a caption that reads, "ILLIT really stole everything NewJeans did in two years under a month into their debut."
Korean netizens agreed with the original poster. They noted that the school uniform concept itself isn't unique, but the style that NewJeans wore was uncommon. The fact that ILLIT wore a similar uniform is what sparked backlash.
Some comments read,
- "Isn't the common kind of school uniform the 'Produce' style one? NewJeans definitely did something new by wearing the old-school kind of uniform."
- "If NewJeans was a seven-year-old group, I'd just be like 'Oh, okay.' But it hasn't even been two years since NewJeans debuted and the event went on a 10-month hiatus. ILLIT just debuted and copied everything."
- "The way ILLIT is cleverly copying everything NewJeans did is f*cking wicked."
What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!
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Written by Alexa Lopez
