Trial for ‘ILLIT Plagiarism Controversy’ Lawsuit Between BELIFT Lab and Former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin to Begin in January

The civil lawsuit stemming from the "ILLIT plagiarism controversy," which has escalated into a broader conflict between former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin and BELIFT Lab, is set to go to trial in January 2025.

According to legal sources, the 12th Civil Affairs Department of the Seoul Western District Court will hold the first hearing for the damages lawsuit filed by BELIFT Lab, the agency representing ILLIT, against former CEO Min Hee-jin on January 10, 2025. BELIFT Lab has filed a claim for 2 billion won (approximately $1.5 million) in damages.

Background of the Controversy

BELIFT Lab maintains that allegations of ILLIT plagiarizing NewJeans’ concept are unfounded. The agency filed the lawsuit in June 2024, asserting:

"ILLIT’s branding strategy and concept were finalized and shared internally on July 21, 2023. The so-called ‘plan’ from the informant was sent on August 28, 2023, well after ILLIT’s concept had been completed. Thus, it could not have influenced ILLIT’s creative direction."

However, in a statement to Star News on November 18, Min Hee-jin contested this claim, stating:

"Despite the clear testimony of a HYBE insider and undeniable similarities, they are denying it and misleading public opinion. It was HYBE and BELIFT Lab that escalated internal issues into public disputes, spreading false information and engaging in obstruction of business and defamation. They should reflect on who is truly causing harm by using a rookie group as a shield while neglecting the damage done to NewJeans."

Min’s Allegations and BELIFT Lab’s Response

During an October injunction hearing regarding HYBE’s voting rights, Min’s legal team alleged that ILLIT had plagiarized NewJeans. Evidence presented by an internal HYBE employee claimed that ILLIT’s creative director had accessed NewJeans’ concept plan during ILLIT’s conception phase. The employee reportedly stated, “I never imagined they would create something identical.”

In response, BELIFT Lab rejected the allegations and filed additional legal complaints for defamation and obstruction of business. The agency criticized Min, saying:

"Min Hee-jin sacrificed an innocent rookie group for personal gain. By perpetuating baseless plagiarism claims, she is causing harm to popular culture as a whole. Her actions distort the truth to suit her agenda, hindering the creative process of the industry."

BELIFT Lab further asserted:

"Min’s claims harm not only BELIFT Lab but also innocent artists like ILLIT, who have become scapegoats in her pursuit of personal benefit. These unfounded allegations must be addressed to ensure a fair creative environment for all artists."

Min Hee-jin’s Press Conference and Kim Tae-ho’s Remarks

At an emergency press conference held on April 25, Min reiterated her claims, stating:

"Who benefits from this? This is ruining ILLIT as well. If we allow this, every group will become NewJeans. I am not slandering ILLIT. They’ve done nothing wrong—it’s the adults who are to blame."

In response, BELIFT Lab CEO Kim Tae-ho criticized Min’s behavior, stating:

"If you truly believe the artists are not at fault, then you should avoid unnecessary mentions of them. Instead, your actions have mobilized idol fans to criticize and slander ILLIT. This behavior is deeply harmful and unjust."

Kim continued, “It is shocking that someone with such extensive experience in this industry would make baseless claims for selfish motives. The entire controversy stems from a ridiculous and self-serving accusation that has caused immense harm to others.”

What’s Next?

The first trial hearing in January will allow both sides to present their cases in court. As tensions escalate, this lawsuit marks a critical moment for the entertainment industry, with potential implications for how intellectual property and creative concepts are handled in the future.

BELIFT Lab remains committed to defending its artists and reputation while calling for accountability for what it describes as harmful and baseless accusations.

Source: https://m.entertain.naver.com/now/article/108/0003283229