NewJeans is currently involved in a copyright infringement lawsuit over their song 'How Sweet,' with claims of melodic and structural similarities to a demo track called 'One of a Kind.' While the accusers allege infringement, NewJeans' agency, ADOR, firmly denies any plagiarism. The case is proceeding through the legal system to determine the truth, highlighting the complexities of copyright in the global K-pop industry.
What are the specific issues in the NewJeans copyright lawsuit? 2026
NewJeans' latest track, 'How Sweet,' has sparked controversy shortly after its release, facing accusations of copyright infringement. The composers who filed the lawsuit claim that the melody and structure of the song's first verse bear a resemblance to their demo track, 'One of a Kind,' which they had previously proposed. They are specifically pointing to the similarity in the 'topline'—the main melodic hook—as a key point of contention, seeking to protect their creative rights. However, ADOR, NewJeans' management agency, has completely refuted these plagiarism allegations, asserting that 'How Sweet' is an original composition. With both sides presenting starkly opposing viewpoints, the final verdict from the court is highly anticipated. Determining musical similarity is a complex and often subjective process, and the outcome of this case is expected to have significant repercussions across the entire K-pop industry.
K-Pop Copyright Protection: What Fans Need to Know 2026
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As K-pop continues its global ascent, the importance of music copyright is becoming increasingly paramount. As fans, it's crucial to respect the hard work of your favorite artists by refraining from illegal duplication or unauthorized sharing. Utilizing music streaming services and purchasing official albums are the most effective ways to ensure creators receive fair compensation. Furthermore, in situations like the NewJeans case, where plagiarism allegations arise, it's essential to adopt a mature approach by objectively assessing the facts and listening to both sides, rather than engaging in premature criticism. This thoughtful engagement is vital for the healthy development of K-pop fandom culture.
Music Plagiarism: What are the standards for judging similarity and what should be noted? 2026
Determining music plagiarism, or copyright infringement, is a complex process. Simply having a few similar melodic phrases doesn't automatically constitute plagiarism. Courts consider various factors, including the overall similarity of the musical expression, the originality of the work, and the significance of the allegedly infringing material within the original song. For instance, even if two melodies sound alike, if the song's structure, rhythm, harmonic progression, or arrangement differs significantly, it might not be deemed plagiarism. Additionally, if the similar part is a minor element of the entire work or uses commonly known musical patterns, it may also not be considered infringement. Therefore, in the NewJeans case, beyond the similarity in the first verse's melody, the overall originality of the song and the intent behind its creation will likely be thoroughly examined.
