WATCH: Footage of ILLIT Lip-Syncing Resurfaces: 'This Is Disappointing'

Footage of ILLIT being caught lip-syncing during their debut preparations has sparked backlash.

Despite the release of the "Lucky Girl Syndrome" music video, ILLIT continues to be one of the most controversial rookie groups in K-pop. Debuting under HYBE Corporation, one of the largest entertainment companies, ILLIT had a privileged start. With excellent music and striking visuals right from their debut, it's clear the management company invested in the group heavily. However, despite these advantages, ILLIT has faced numerous challenges.

ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin boldly declared that ILLIT is merely a "NewJeans copy," intensifying the scrutiny on them. This sparked comparisons to NewJeans, with many noting the similarities in lineup, age, and concept. This caused ILLIT to be looked at unfavorably by the public, with people claiming they are a "counterfeit/copied group."

Besides that, a significant issue for ILLIT has been their vocal performance. Even before they were being compared to NewJeans, the group was criticized for their unstable live singing abilities. This was particularly evident during encore stages, where the vocal weaknesses of the Japanese members, especially fan-favorite Moka, were even more obvious, sparking ridicule and skepticism about ILLIT's talents.

In response to the backlash, the members soon started lip-syncing for future activities. However, this seemed to bite them back, with member Wonhee frequently being caught not singing live and forgetting to lip-sync her parts.

During their appearance on the radio show "Idol Radio," Wonhee forgot to lip-sync her opening part in "Magnetic," revealing the group's reliance on the backing track from the very start.

The situation didn't improve when Wonhee forgot to move the mic to her mouth during her "Baby don't say no" part, leading many to realize they were not singing live. Unable to do anything about it, the members appeared shocked, particularly Moka, whose reaction appeared flabbergasted. The others were seen laughing. Wonhee froze for a second before continuing the performance.

This incident only added fuel to the fire of ongoing criticisms of the group's authenticity and reliance on lip-syncing. Many argue that the company should prioritize honing the group's performance skills instead of making them rely on pre-recorded tracks.

Some comments read,

• "Wonhee's mistake just exposed the lip-sync from the start, thanks!"
• "It's disappointing when idols go on shows, and you expect them to sing live but they lip-sync instead."
• "Can they drop the cutesy act? If they can't sing well, at least perform properly."
• "The comments are harsh but true, what else can we expect from their live vocals?"
• "Her visuals might be good, but how did Wonhee ever win from that survival show with those skills?"
• "ILLIT seems very manufactured. Despite good music and high achievements, there's no distinct individuality in the group."

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

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Written by Alexa Lopez