Plagiarism Or Inspiration? Fans Debate Similarities Between Red Velvet's Seulgi And Former NMIXX Jini's Solo Debuts

The fine line between artistic inspiration and blatant imitation has once again become the topic of fervent debate within the K-Pop community. This time, the conversation centers around two talented artists: Seulgi of the immensely popular girl group Red Velvet and Jini, a former member of NMIXX. Fans are torn over the alleged similarities in the solo debut concepts of both idols.

Red Velvet’s Seulgi unveiled her solo mini-album 28 Reasons in October of last year. Known for their innovative and captivating concepts, Red Velvet has consistently delighted fans and critics alike. Seulgi’s debut was no different, earning plaudits for its ingenious blend of thematic elements.

Drawing inspiration from the duality of good and evil, the album presents a nuanced exploration of characters like Snow White and Grimhilde (the Evil Queen). Its core theme is accentuated by a statement from Seulgi herself: “Good and evil people are not clearly distinguished. Good and evil coexist within one person.” This motif is so integral that it even graces the album cover as a form of subtitle.

Fast-forward to the present, and the K-Pop world is abuzz with anticipation for Jini’s upcoming solo debut with mini album An Iron Hand In A Velvet Glove. However, as teaser images and an “Album Trailer Film” were unveiled, fans quickly noticed stark resemblances to Seulgi’s 28 Reasons. From similar hair and outfit styles to an almost identical scene in a classroom, the parallels are hard to ignore.

seulgi ‘28 reasons’ • jini ‘an iron hand in a velvet glove” album trailer pic.twitter.com/swZlyIyKNL

— 💐 (@seoprodite) September 17, 2023

the seulgi print is crazy 😭 https://t.co/ZlVxkRGHZW

— rain; (@redfl4vour) September 22, 2023

The resemblance extends even to wardrobe choices, with fans highlighting that both idols were pictured wearing the exact same shirt in their respective promotions. Furthermore, the overarching theme of duality, represented through contrasting red and black imagery in Jini’s teasers, bears a resemblance to Seulgi’s “Grimhilde” concept teaser set.

is this not the exact same top too maybe i'm seeing things pic.twitter.com/D6aQbs3ATW

— gigi🍊 (@joyygroove) October 4, 2023

not jini looking like she’s about to sing 28 reasons by seulgi pic.twitter.com/5iaE58FAUL

— hugros ✮ saw aespa (@hugo_ovr) September 21, 2023

With such striking similarities on display, fans and netizens have dived deep into debates about the nature of artistic inspiration. While some argue that Jini’s concept borrows heavily from Seulgi’s, others believe that it’s simply drawn some inspiration from the iconic debut. This has led to polarized opinions across social media platforms.

seulgi is the blueprint. https://t.co/ACDLEnfSc3

— bae (@injeolssamz) September 19, 2023

this is SAURR seulgi coded omg but who wouldnt want to take inspo from concept excellency! the whole concept idea being seulgis too like…anyways jini is seulgis potential 5th gen daughter iktr https://t.co/2q8TqAwc6S

— a ⟢ (@fleumiau) September 20, 2023

There are fans who feel that Seulgi and her team deserve explicit credit for their pioneering concept and others who argue that the K-Pop industry thrives on evolving ideas and that Jini’s debut is just another step in that evolution.

I respectfully think you’re reaching

— 🐻 (@i3mixx) October 5, 2023

Well thank goodness it was about time people copied the queen

— ✧ (@WJPEEF) September 17, 2023

mother seulgi and her daughter jini i love it ! https://t.co/b3YkpfxRwq

— 🃏 (@micoutzz) September 18, 2023

While the debate continues, it’s essential to remember the hard work and passion both artists have put into their projects. Regardless of where one stands on the issue, both Seulgi’s 28 Reasons and Jini’s upcoming debut are testaments to their talent and dedication to their craft.