Plagiarism Scandal? ADOR Defends NewJeans' 'Bubble Gum'

(MHNSports Reporter Sun Shin) On July 23rd, ADOR released an official statement on social media.

First, ADOR shared their feelings about NewJeans completing their activities in Japan and Korea and celebrating their second anniversary on July 22nd.

"We are deeply moved to reach the second anniversary of our debut. It was a time where we felt deep love from fans who supported NewJeans on various stages, from broadcasts in Korea and Japan to the fan meeting at Tokyo Dome," the agency said. "We sincerely thank the NewJeans members, all the staff, and everyone who helped, including the Bunnies, for ensuring all schedules proceeded smoothly despite unexpected difficulties."

However, ADOR acknowledged the spread of misinformation through media and social networks and aimed to correct the distorted facts, specifically addressing the recent plagiarism controversy over "Bubble Gum."

The agency explained, "About a month after the release of the 'Bubble Gum' music video, we received an email raising a similarity issue from Edition Korea, representing Shakatak's UK agency, Wise Music Group. We responded by clarifying that the 'Bubble Gum' composers had never heard 'Easier Said Than Done' before and thus did not use it without permission."

Considering the ongoing dispute with HYBE at the time, ADOR sought professional analysis from two renowned international music scholars to prevent the matter from being misrepresented. "On June 17, we received a content certification from Shakatak's domestic legal representative, to which we replied by requesting an analysis report proving unauthorized use," ADOR stated.

Comparing "Bubble Gum" with the mentioned plagiarized song "Easier Said Than Done," ADOR asserted, "The two songs differ in chord progression, BPM, overall mood, and flow. The claim of unauthorized use is unfounded, as the short melodic similarity can be found in many popular songs across various genres."

ADOR strongly refuted the plagiarism allegations and requested a further discussion based on credible analysis reports. "It's a common procedure to request analysis reports to determine plagiarism. However, we regret that some media depict this request as unethical."

Finally, ADOR mentioned that NewJeans, after a successful activity, would take a break to recharge and prepare for their return with new appearances. "During this time, we will surprise fans with various schedules and content, so please look forward to it and show your interest."

Earlier, on May 24, NewJeans released their domestic double single "How Sweet," with the "Bubble Gum" music video released on April 26. The video sparked plagiarism allegations on YouTube and social media, comparing it to Shakatak's "Easier Said Than Done."

Shakatak initially responded, "We'll investigate; it seems similar," and on June 17, they sent a content certification demanding the cessation of "Bubble Gum" for copyright infringement.

In response, ADOR stated on the 18th, "We did not use Shakatak's song without permission and requested a credible analysis report, which we have not yet received."

Shakatak later announced on social media, "Our publishing company Wise Music Group is handling this case, and we've hired a musicologist for a thorough investigation."

Photo credits: MHN Sports DB, ADOR, Shakatak Official Website.