The K-Pop world is abuzz with controversy as ENHYPEN, a popular boy group under HYBE’s BELIFT LAB label, has been accused of plagiarizing the sound of fellow HYBE labelmate CORTIS. The allegations surfaced after the release of ENHYPEN’s latest album, “THE SIN: VANISH,” and its title track “Knife,” which some fans and critics claim bear a striking resemblance to CORTIS’ style. As both groups fall under the HYBE umbrella, the controversy has sparked a heated debate about the lack of originality in K-Pop and the blurred lines between inspiration and imitation.
The Allegations and the Backlash
The accusations against ENHYPEN began to gain traction online, with fans and critics pointing out similarities between “Knife” and CORTIS’ music. The controversy intensified as it became clear that both groups are managed by different labels under the same parent company, HYBE. This has led some to question whether the company’s structure and management style are contributing to the alleged lack of originality. K-Pop fans, known for their meticulous attention to detail and dedication, have been quick to call out ENHYPEN for what they perceive as a clear case of plagiarism.
ENHYPEN’s fans, however, have come to the group’s defense, arguing that they have explored similar sounds in past tracks before CORTIS debuted. Some have even claimed that ENHYPEN received the demo for “Knife” months before CORTIS officially debuted, suggesting that the two groups may have been working on similar projects around the same time. While these claims have done little to quell the controversy, they have sparked a broader discussion about the challenges of creating original music in the K-Pop industry.
The backlash against ENHYPEN has also raised questions about the role of HYBE in the controversy. As the parent company of both BELIFT LAB and BIGHIT MUSIC, HYBE has a significant amount of influence over the direction and management of its labels. Some have speculated that the company’s focus on producing commercially successful acts may be contributing to the lack of originality in its artists’ music.
Industry Implications and HYBE’s Response
The controversy surrounding ENHYPEN and CORTIS has significant implications for the K-Pop industry as a whole. The genre is known for its highly produced and polished sound, but the allegations against ENHYPEN have raised concerns about the homogenization of K-Pop and the lack of diversity in its artists’ music. If HYBE’s artists are indeed lacking a clear musical identity, it could have a ripple effect throughout the industry, with other companies and artists potentially following suit.
HYBE has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but the company’s response will likely be closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike. The outcome remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the K-Pop world will be watching with great interest.
What’s Next for ENHYPEN and CORTIS?
As the controversy continues to unfold, fans of both ENHYPEN and CORTIS are eagerly awaiting the next move from both groups. Will ENHYPEN address the allegations directly, or will they continue to focus on promoting their latest album? Meanwhile, CORTIS is set to release new music in the coming weeks, which is likely to further fuel the debate. The K-Pop community remains on high alert, and it seems this saga is far from over.
The Implications of Inter-Label Plagiarism
The controversy surrounding ENHYPEN and CORTIS raises important questions about the implications of inter-label plagiarism within the same parent company. When two groups under the same umbrella are accused of plagiarizing each other, it not only damages the reputation of the groups involved but also reflects poorly on the company’s management and oversight. HYBE’s structure, with multiple labels operating under its parent company, may be contributing to the lack of originality and creativity in its artists’ music.
| Label | Group | Debut Date |
| — | — | — |
| BELIFT LAB | ENHYPEN | November 30, 2020 |
| BIGHIT MUSIC | CORTIS | [Insert Debut Date] |
The fact that ENHYPEN and CORTIS are managed by different labels under HYBE has led some to speculate about the company’s creative direction and quality control. If HYBE is not taking adequate measures to ensure that its artists are producing original work, it could have serious consequences for the K-Pop industry as a whole.
The Pressure to Produce Hits in K-Pop
The K-Pop industry is known for its fast-paced and competitive nature, with groups constantly striving to produce hits and stay relevant. This pressure to produce can sometimes lead to creative shortcuts, such as borrowing from other artists or relying on familiar sounds. In the case of ENHYPEN and CORTIS, it’s possible that the pressure to produce a successful comeback led to a lack of originality and a reliance on similar sounds.
The commercial success of K-Pop groups is often tied to their ability to produce chart-topping hits, and HYBE’s business model may be contributing to the emphasis on producing hits over creating original music.
The Future of K-Pop and Originality
The controversy surrounding ENHYPEN and CORTIS serves as a wake-up call for the K-Pop industry, highlighting the need for greater emphasis on originality and creativity. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for companies like HYBE to prioritize artistic integrity and take steps to prevent plagiarism and promote innovation.
By supporting and nurturing unique voices and styles, HYBE and other K-Pop companies can help ensure that the industry remains vibrant and exciting for years to come. Ultimately, the future of K-Pop depends on its ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity, and it’s up to companies like HYBE to lead the way.
