Controversial Girl Group Member Directly Addresses Hate Comments Over Plagiarism Accusations

Amid the sustaining controversy plaguing the girl group QWER, member Siyeon recently addressed the issue directly.

Siyeon | MHN

The controversy, which stemmed from the similarity of QWER’s light stick design with that of the boy group, THE BOYZ, has subjected many of the group’s members to incessant hate comments and criticism online. In her recent interaction with fans on Instagram, Siyeon talked about it without holding back.

To those coming all the way to my Instagram to say unspeakable things, go ahead. Thanks for fueling my dopamine. The more this happens, the more I want to rise. Thank you. Sleep well, my driving forces.

— Siyeon

The idol, however, acknowledged that her speaking out this way might get her in trouble with her management. Regardless, she emphasized that she felt the need to talk about it because the attacks were getting out of hand.

Even in a cyber world where anonymity is guaranteed, I believe that as human beings, we shouldn’t hurl baseless personal attacks at one another. I’m sure there’s a reason, a moment where things got twisted. But everything you throw at others will eventually come back to you.

— Siyeon

This controversy began when QWER unveiled their light stick design inspired by Siyeon’s use of a megaphone as a stage prop. However, K-Pop fans pointed out that the design closely resembled the official lightstick of THE BOYZ, which was released in 2021.

Popular Girl Group Accused Of Plagiarising 4th Gen Boy Group’s Lightstick

Later, THE BOYZ’s agency, IST ENTERTAINMENT, released a statement that they had requested QWER’s agency to change the design, but no resolution was reached. Hence, they announced their plan to take legal action. QWER’s agency responded, saying that they had the design reviewed by experts who had confirmed that there were no issues of overlapping design or copyright infringement.

With tensions escalating between the two groups, Korea Entertainment Producer’s Association (KEPA) released a statement on September 29, KST, addressing the gravity of the matter. You can read more about it here:

Korea Entertainment Producer’s Association Speaks Up About Light Stick Design Controversy