TWICE's Nayeon Was Accused Of Plagiarizing Singer Lim Young Woong—Here's What She Had To Say About It

It hasn’t been long since TWICE‘s Nayeon made a successful solo debut with the energetic title track “POP!” The song quickly climbed the charts, and it’s all thanks to its catchy beat and impressive point choreography. Of course, Nayeon herself was another appealing factor!

However, despite how well-received it was, there was one controversy that surrounded it. Netizens accused the idol of plagiarizing trot and ballad singer Lim Young Woong‘s album title.

Taking after her own name, Nayeon’s album is entitled “IM NAYEON.”

On the other hand, Lim Young Woong’s album is called “IM HERO.”

Both start with the same first word, and since the trot singer made a comeback before the girl group center, people argued that she must have copied him.

Nayeon defended herself when she guested on the TheKstarNextDoor web series hosted by Jonathan. She was joined by fellow TWICE members Momo and Sana.

From left to right: Jonathan, Sana, Momo, and Nayeon

When the topic of the controversy was brought up, she explained that she had no idea that Lim Young Woong had given his album such a similar title. By the time she found out, all the albums and marketing materials had already been printed out. It was too late to make as drastic a decision as changing her album title.

I didn’t know that when I was preparing mine. But unfortunately, it was all printed out.

— Nayeon

Nayeon was clear and polite when she debunked the plagiarism claims. It was simply a coincidence! Since it’s not possible for all singers to discuss their comeback plans with each other, coincidences like this are unavoidable.