HYBE Gets Sued By Visual Artist For Copyright Infringement

HYBE America, the U.S. branch of K-pop powerhouse HYBE, is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by renowned contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. The legal action follows the alleged unauthorized use of Arsham’s artwork in a recent music video by rapper Quavo, who is affiliated with HYBE’s subsidiary label, Quality Control Music Publishing (QCM).

According to court documents, Arsham claims that his work was featured in Quavo’s new video without his permission. Shortly after the video and related promotional content were released, Arsham reportedly sent multiple cease-and-desist notices to the defendants. However, he alleges that no response was received from the company, prompting him to take legal action.

Arsham asserts that the incident caused him both reputational and financial harm. He further accuses HYBE America of being directly or indirectly involved in the distribution of the infringing content, and of failing to prevent the infringement despite allegedly being aware of it. The artist is seeking to hold the defendants accountable under four claims, citing the U.S. Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. § 101 et seq.) and the New York Civil Rights Law (§§ 50–51).

Arsham claimed that Quavo’s “Back to the Basics 2025” promotional video unlawfully incorporates his Ferrari-centric sculpture, which is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. Specifically, he claims that the “infringing video features Quavo performing in front of the artwork,” which is featured “prominently” throughout the 45-second video.

The violated artwork. | TFL

In addition to monetary compensation for damages, Arsham is also requesting a court order to prohibit further use and distribution of the disputed content. A jury trial has been formally requested.

You can view the accused clip from Quavo below.

Back To The Basics 2025!!

♬ original sound – QuavoHuncho