K-netizens accuse HYBE of copying names and concepts for idol groups in multiple instances

In an ongoing controversy, K-netizens have taken to online communities to highlight and criticize HYBE for allegedly copying names and concepts from existing idol groups. The debate has intensified as netizens point out various distinct instances where they believe HYBE’s new groups bear striking resemblances to pre-existing ones.

On June 28, a netizen highlighted several instances and examples where HYBE’s new idol groups exhibit similarities to names used by other established idol groups.

The netizen accused HYBE of copying the names and concepts, providing detailed explanations in a popular online community.

1. HYBE’s American girl group KATSEYE’s fandom name “EYEKONS” – YG’s boy group name “iKON”

2. BELIFT LAB, a subsidiary of HYBE, named the ILLIT fandom “Lilly” – the same name as a member of JYP’s NMIXX, Lily. (also BLACKPINK member Lisa’s nickname is Lili).

3. HYBE’s newly launched virtual group SYNDI8 has a member named Canary, which is similar to the name of aespa’s member Karina from SM Entertainment.

4.SYNDI8 – Similar to Seventeen member The8’s name.

5. HYBE (Pledis Entertainment) boy group TWS (pronounced Two-US) is similar to the RBW boy group name ONEUS.

6. HYBE launched a virtual character named Cholsak Man that is similar to the broadcaster Chim Chak Man.

Korean netizens shared their thoughts on this topic and they commented:

“Honestly, except for number 2 and number 5, I don’t have much of an opinion on the others… Even though it’s a K-pop company, number 1 is an overseas girl group, and ‘iKON’ isn’t like a personalized word…The virtual group gives off a more Japanese vibe.”
“Didn’t they change the fandom name for number 2 twice? Or maybe my memory is wrong.”
“I think this is forced.”

“Canary?”

“SYNDI8, The8? but they’re under the same label.”

“I think the bigger problem is the art plagiarism for the virtual group.”

“Canary… That name is funny.”

“TWS and ONEUS… is far-fetched.”

“I think this is far-fetched.”

“That virtual group one is really… lol.”

“HYBE is getting low…”

“There’s a reason these things are being mentioned… because everyone thought the same.”

What are your thoughts on this topic? Do you think all these names bear similarities with existing groups? Let us know in the comment section below!