ILLIT's song "Lucky Girl Syndrome" is being compared to a popular P-Pop song, leading many to question if the K-pop group copied it.
On May 14, 2024, popular music influencer Jarred Jermaine released a short-form video comparing ILLIT's song "Lucky Girl Syndrome" with Filipino girl group BINI's song "Salamin, Salamin." Though he doesn't speak in the video, the words "Did anyone notice the similar melody in this song?"
He places a snippet of the second pre-chorus of ILLIT's song. Specifically, he plays the part where Wonhee sings "Seollemi seollemi seollemi / Gyesok chaoreuneun geol / I believe, I believe, I believe / Irwojyeo minneun daero."
He then plays the chorus of "Salamin, Salamin," when member Gwen sings, "Salamin, salamin sa dingding / Nasa'n na ang pag-ibig? / Salamin, salamin sa dingding / Pwede mo bang sabihin?"
It was noted that the melodies of the songs are almost identical. Additionally, the fact that both songs utilized their singers repeating words that start with "S" to the same melody raised eyebrows. Some wondered if ILLIT had copied the song from the Filipino girl group.
Some people joked that they never expected a K-pop group to plagiarize a Filipino song, while others praised BINI for their live vocals and dance ability.
However, it is highly unlikely that the producers of "Lucky Girl Syndrome" copied "Salamin, Salamin." This is due to how close their release dates are. "Salamin, Salamin" was released on March 8, 2024, while "Lucky Girl Syndrome" was released on March 25.
Producing a song can take months and even years. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that "Lucky Girl Syndrome" was made just days after "Salamin, Salamin" was released. It can be concluded that the similarities between the two songs are just coincidental.
This is not the first time "Lucky Girl Syndrome" has been accused of plagiarism. Earlier this week, the choreography of "Lucky Girl Syndrome" was accused of copying NewJeans's choreography for a McDonald's commercial. In both dances, the girl groups are seen rubbing their palms together while doing intense footwork. Both choreographies also have the girls shaking their hands in a similar manner.
As of writing, BELIFT Lab has not released a statement on the matter.
What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!
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Written by Alexa Lopez
