ILLIT is facing a fresh wave of plagiarism accusations after unveiling concept photos for their upcoming comeback, with netizens claiming the images blatantly copy fellow girl group KiiiKiii‘s recent concept shoot. The group is set to return on October 26 at 6PM KST with their new release, teased under the title ‘BREAK EVEN’.
ILLIT in the new concept photos (Credits: Koreaboo)
Since their 2024 debut, ILLIT has repeatedly been accused of copying NewJeans. But this time, online critics say HYBE has moved on to a new target: KiiiKiii’s recent photos, with the blonde styling and small visual details drawing direct comparisons. “Don’t even try to hide it,” one viral post read, while another joked that KiiiKiii’s “nachos didn’t even go cold yet.”
Netizens Slam HYBE As “Shameless”
The criticism has been fierce. Social media users called the company “shameless” for the perceived copying, with one viral quote post saying HYBE is “actually so shameless” — while others argued that since the company “ran out of NewJeans, they’re now moving to KiiiKiii.” The backlash adds to an already difficult stretch for the group, which has recently faced scrutiny over concert ticket sales as well.
What Comes Next
The plagiarism row is unfolding just days before ILLIT’s planned comeback, meaning the group’s new music will arrive under a cloud of controversy. Neither HYBE nor ILLIT’s team has publicly addressed the claims so far. With the comeback scheduled for later this month, all eyes are on whether the agency responds — or lets the music speak for itself.
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Source: Koreaboo — read the full story there.
