BPM Entertainment's new girl group, BADVILLAIN, has been drumming up buzz recently, but not in a good way. A post by a netizen that accused them of copying BABYMONSTER went viral on X (formerly Twitter).
The Accusations and Viral Post
The kpop singers fan of BABYMONSTER accused BADVILLAIN of copying various elements from the teaser, which features silhouettes of the members, to having similar logos. BADVILLAIN’s album logo was compared to G-DRAGON’s signature logo for PEACEMINUSONE. It also featured horns, similar to BABYMONSTER’s pop-up store logo. What fans considered to be the worst was allegedly copying BABYMONSTER’s signature pose. The pose appears in “Sheesh,” where the girls make horns at the back of their heads. The silhouettes for BADVILLAIN feature a similar pose. Additionally, fans have claimed that BADVILLAIN used similar instrumentals in their music.
Evidence and Reactions on Social Media
There’s too many coincidences to be called just an “inspiration”, their company have no shame omg.
X의 BADVILLAIN OFFICIAL님(@BADVILLAIN_BPM)
BADVILLAIN The 1st Single Album 'OVERSTEP' 'BADVILLAIN' MV Teaser #2 🔗 https://t.co/7HYhTsAwJE 2024. 06. 03. 6PM (KST) #BADVILLAIN #배드빌런 #OVERSTEP #BPM #BigPlanetMade
twitter.com
https://pic.twitter.com/aczaSOw4sD
X의 a님(@baepiinkus)
there’s too many coincidences to be called just a “inspiration”, their company have no shame omg
twitter.com
Other netizens have since tried to debunk the accusations. For one, the pose is considered to be pretty common in K-Pop.
Guys, look at Dreamcatcher copying BABYMONSTER FIVE years ago too! I can't believe they're copying something that BABYMONSTER invented, oh my god.
X의 a님(@baepiinkus)
there’s too many coincidences to be called just a “inspiration”, their company have no shame omg
twitter.com
https://pic.twitter.com/UQhzeCEKBV
X의 jæck never dies •님(@savbydrags)
guys look at dreamcatcher copying babymonster FIVE years ago too ih my god ai can't believe they're copying something that babymonster invented om my god 😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱
twitter.com
Common Themes and Over-Sensitivity
Fans also claim that silhouettes against a red background have been around forever. It seems like many other netizens disagree with BABYMONSTER fans, calling the latter out for over-sensitivity.
There are several groups already using these concepts. So, please BABYMONSTER fans, the world doesn’t revolve around you, just touch some grass. BADVILLAIN IS COMING!
X의 a님(@baepiinkus)
there’s too many coincidences to be called just a “inspiration”, their company have no shame omg
twitter.com
https://pic.twitter.com/nb1OfoJlVy
X의 Harvey님(@thisjzi)
there are several groups already use these concepts. so pls baby monster fans, the world doesn’t revolve around you, just touch some grass. BAD VILLAIN IS COMING!
twitter.com
On the other hand, others defend BABYMONSTER fans, claiming that the accusations have some basis to them.
I'm not a BAEMON stan, but it's so dumb for non-fans to gaslight them into thinking there's NO similarities. One or two coincidences are okay, but so far everything is way too reminiscent of an existing group – that's where I'd draw the line, to be honest. It is not the girls' fault but the company.
X의 a님(@baepiinkus)
there’s too many coincidences to be called just a “inspiration”, their company have no shame omg
twitter.com
Historical Context of Similar Accusations in K-Pop
The K-Pop industry has a long history of groups being accused of copying each other. This isn't the first time that fans have pointed out similarities between groups.
Past Incidents
For instance, BLACKPINK was once accused of copying 2NE1, another girl group under the same label, YG Entertainment. Similarly, EXO faced accusations of mimicking TVXQ in their early days. These controversies often ignite heated debates among fans and can sometimes even affect the groups' reputations.
Common Concepts and Shared Inspirations
It's worth noting that K-Pop as a genre often thrives on shared aesthetics and themes. Many concepts such as school uniforms, military outfits, and fantasy elements are recycled across different groups. These common themes can sometimes blur the lines between inspiration and imitation.
The Role of Entertainment Companies
Entertainment companies play a significant role in shaping the image and concepts of K-Pop groups. The accusations against BADVILLAIN bring to light the practices of BPM Entertainment and whether they may have intentionally mirrored elements from BABYMONSTER to gain attention.
Marketing Strategies
Companies often use controversial marketing strategies to create trends Sometimes, this backfires, leading to negative publicity and backlash from fans. The challenge is to balance innovation with originality while respecting other artists' creative efforts.
Ethical Considerations
Copying in the entertainment industry is complex. While others believe it undermines the originality and hard work of the original creators. This debate shapes the discourse around intellectual property and artistic integrity in K-Pop.
Fans' Influence on Group Dynamic
Fans, often referred to as "fandoms," wield considerable influence in the K-Pop industry. Their support can make or break a group's success. The accusations against BADVILLAIN highlight the power of fans in shaping public perception and holding companies accountable.
Social Media Impact
Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) amplify fans' voices, allowing them to mobilize quickly and spread their messages. The viral nature of posts can escalate situations rapidly, forcing companies to respond to public outcry.
Fandom Wars
Fandom wars, or conflicts between different fan groups, are common in K-Pop. These disputes can range from friendly rivalries to intense feuds. The accusations against BADVILLAIN have sparked another chapter in these ongoing battles, with fans defending their favorite groups passionately.
Broader Implications for K-Pop
The controversy surrounding BADVILLAIN and BABYMONSTER highlights broader questions about K-Pop's future. As the genre globalizes, originality and ethical practices will become more important.
Globalization and Cultural Exchange
KPop global reach leads to inevitable cultural exchange and influence, but it also brings accusations of copying with significant consequences. Balancing cultural exchange and originality is crucial for the industry growth.
The Future of K-Pop Concepts
As new groups debut and compete for attention, the pressure to stand out will intensify. This could lead to more innovative concepts or, conversely, more accusations of copying. The future of K-Pop will depend on how the industry navigates these challenges.
Intro of Bad Villain:
Debuting on June 3, 2024, Bad Villain is a fresh new girl group under Big Planet Made Entertainment, joining labelmates like VIVIZ, SHINee's Taemin, BE'O, and entertainer Lee Soo-geun. This ambitious seven-member group consists of Emma, Inhye, Yunseo, Yeseul, Chloe, Seoyeon, and Seobin, bringing a powerful blend of Pop and Dance music to the scene. As Big Planet Made Entertainment's first group following their establishment in 2021, Bad Villain is poised to make a big splash in the K-Pop industry.
Conclusion
The accusations against BADVILLAIN of copying BABYMONSTER highlight the complex dynamics of the K-Pop industry. This controversy reveals the challenges of maintaining originality in a competitive field, considering historical precedents, entertainment companies' role, and fans' influence. As K-Pop evolves, balancing inspiration with innovation is crucial for its success. The upcoming release of BADVILLAIN’s music video will likely clarify whether these accusations hold merit or are just another chapter in K-Pop rivalries.
According to the KpopSingers:
“Bad Villain (배드빌런) is a seven-member Kpop girl group under Big Planet Made Entertainment. The group members consist of Emma, Chloe Young, HU’E, INA, YunSeo, Vin, and Kelly. They debuted on June 3, 2024 with the single album, “OVERSTEP“.”