NewJeans’ “ETA” Hit with Major Copyright Lawsuit Amidst Group’s Tumultuous Period
Bunnies, brace yourselves for some unexpected news from the K-Pop world! From left are Danielle, Hyein, Hanni, Minji and Haerin of K-pop girl group NewJeans’ original five-member lineup. Courtesy of ADOR The beloved HYBE sensation, NewJeans, whose unique sound and refreshing concept have captivated fans globally, is currently making headlines not just for their music, but for a significant legal challenge. Their chart-topping hit, “ETA,” has become the focus of a copyright infringement lawsuit filed in the United States.
“ETA” Lawsuit Unpacked: From Instrumentals to Tech Giants
According to reports from Korean entertainment media, a U.S. copyright management company named All Surface Publishing initiated legal proceedings against “ETA” this past Tuesday (local time) at the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. This lawsuit isn’t just targeting the talented members of NewJeans; it also names their agency ADOR, parent company HYBE, the song’s producer 250, and lyricists Beenzino and Vana as defendants. Interestingly, even tech giant Apple, which famously featured NewJeans in its advertising, is included in the suit.
The core of All Surface Publishing’s claim is that “ETA” allegedly incorporates instrumental elements from “Samir’s Theme,” a 2005 dance track by producer DJ Debonair Samir, to which the company holds the rights. The lawsuit specifically points to the unauthorized use of the track’s distinctive syncopated horn melody, its intricate 16th-note rhythmic structure, and a particular bass drum pattern. The plaintiff is seeking substantial remedies, including profits earned from the song and statutory damages potentially reaching up to $150,000 for the alleged infringement.
A Look Back at “ETA”‘s Global Success and ADOR’s Defense
“ETA” was one of the standout tracks from NewJeans’ critically acclaimed second EP, “Get Up,” released in 2023. The song’s massive success helped propel the group to the pinnacle of the Billboard 200, a remarkable achievement just a year after their debut.
Addressing the situation, ADOR provided a statement to The Korea Times, confirming that the track was “obtained through Vana, who was chosen by then-CEO Min Hee-jin.” The agency added that it is “reviewing company records to determine whether Min properly reviewed the song for similarities at the time.” Min Hee-jin, the former ADOR CEO who oversaw the production of NewJeans’ music / Courtesy of ooak records
NewJeans’ History of Plagiarism Allegations
This isn’t the first time NewJeans has found itself amidst plagiarism allegations. In 2024, their track “Bubble Gum” faced claims of plagiarizing “Easier Said Than Done” by the British band Shakatak. At that time, Shakatak reportedly signaled legal action, including demands to halt the song’s use and pay damages. ADOR staunchly denied any unauthorized use, even commissioning an analysis from a professional musicologist, and requested Shakatak to provide their own credible analysis report – a response that is yet to be received.
Another song released in the same year, “How Sweet,” also became the subject of a copyright infringement suit. In this instance, a composer sought damages and rights, including a share of royalties, asserting that the song “clearly copied” his work and demonstrated “quantitatively and qualitatively similar” elements.
Internal Turmoil and the Group’s Uncertain Future
Beyond these musical disputes, NewJeans has also navigated complex internal challenges. The group notified ADOR of the termination of its exclusive contract through a surprise press conference in November 2024. Following a protracted legal battle, members Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein have reportedly returned to the agency, fueling speculation among fans about a potential comeback. Sadly, Danielle’s contract was terminated by ADOR, leading to her removal from the group, while Minji’s contractual status remains unconfirmed.
The K-Pop community will be watching closely as these legal battles unfold, hoping for clarity and a swift resolution for NewJeans and their future activities.
