ITZY’s Yeji Faces Plagiarism Accusations While Fans Rally Behind New “Air” Teaser Amid 80s Synth Influence

ITZY’s Yeji is in the spotlight following the release of a teaser for her new track Air. Social media sparked a debate when some users compared the teaser to the work of British artist Charli XCX. A growing number of fans have come forward to defend the artist, arguing that the musical style showcased in the teaser—marked by 80s synth sounds—has existed for decades. This report details the unfolding situation, fan responses, and background information on the group behind the hit.

New Track Teaser

On March 4, 2025, ITZY’s Yeji shared a short music video teaser via the group’s official X account. The teaser, lasting only twenty-two seconds, displayed Yeji in various poses and featured a striking red vehicle. The visuals highlighted a blend of modern aesthetics with a retro touch, emphasizing the 80s synth influence present in the music. This new snippet provides a glimpse into the direction of her upcoming track, Air.

The release of this teaser has raised expectations among fans and industry watchers alike. The combination of a nostalgic sound with contemporary visuals has created a buzz, suggesting that Yeji is exploring familiar genres with a unique twist. The brief clip has now become a reference point for discussions among K-pop enthusiasts.

Plagiarism Claims

Shortly after the teaser’s circulation, some users on social media accused Yeji of copying elements from Charli XCX‘s work. Comparisons were drawn specifically to the music video for Charli XCX’s track Gone, which was released in 2019. Critics claimed that Yeji’s visual and musical style bore an uncanny resemblance to the British pop star’s work.

The allegations sparked debate over originality and inspiration in modern music. Critics argued that certain styles or elements may overlap given the long history of genres like electropop and synth-based music. The discussion centered on whether Yeji was directly imitating Charli XCX or simply paying homage to a genre that has influenced many artists over the decades.

Fan Reactions

A significant wave of support for Yeji quickly emerged on social media platforms. Fans dismissed the plagiarism claims, pointing out that the musical style in question has been part of the industry for many years. One supporter explained that the use of 80s synth sounds and electropop elements is common in music and that Yeji’s rendition is an evolution of ITZY’s established sound.

Multiple tweets emphasized that ITZY has been associated with experimental and electropop music since their debut. Supporters argued that expecting a completely original sound from an artist influenced by a wide range of genres is unrealistic. They also highlighted that comparisons to Charli XCX overlook the long-standing history and influence of the 80s music scene. The fanbase noted that ITZY has previously collaborated with renowned producer Sophie in 2020, which further validates their unique approach to music.

Several social media users stressed that the debate should focus on the evolution of sound rather than on copying. They noted that while inspiration may be drawn from various sources, Yeji’s new work stands on its own merits. These reactions underscore a larger trend among fans who value the group’s creative history and versatility in their musical journey.

Group Background

ITZY is a South Korean girl group consisting of five members: Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna. The group made their debut on February 12, 2019, with the digital single IT’z Different. The release was backed by JYP Entertainment and distributed by IRIVER. Their early success was fueled by popular tracks like Dalla Dalla and Want It?, which showcased a blend of bold visuals and catchy beats.

Over the years, ITZY has built a solid reputation for producing electropop and experimental music. Their discography includes hits such as Crazy in Love, Like Magic, Break Ice, Gold, Born To Be, Cheshire, Kill My Doubt, and Trust Me MIDZY. The group has also made strides in the Japanese market with records like Ringo, Sugar-holic, No Biggie, Blah Blah Blah, and Voltage. Their consistent approach to blending modern pop with innovative sounds has made them a prominent name in the K-pop industry.

Upcoming Release Details

Yeji’s track Air is set to be officially released on March 10, 2025, at 6 PM IST. The digital debut will be followed by the physical release in the United States and Europe on March 14, 2025. The announcement has added further excitement among fans who eagerly await the new sound and visual narrative that Yeji is expected to deliver.

The release schedule indicates a strategic rollout intended to maximize global reach. Industry experts believe that the mix of digital and physical formats will help solidify ITZY’s standing in both domestic and international markets.

Social Media Impact

Social media has played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative around Yeji’s teaser. A number of tweets and posts have drawn attention to the debate over artistic originality. Users on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) have actively engaged in discussions, defending Yeji and emphasizing the historical context of electropop music.

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The conversation on social media reflects broader concerns about creativity and influence in today’s music scene. Many fans point out that music evolves through reinterpretation of established sounds and that innovation often lies in the artist’s unique execution. This robust online dialogue not only highlights the passion of ITZY’s fanbase but also demonstrates how social media can influence public perception in the entertainment industry.

For more updates on ITZY’s Yeji, tune in to Vviptimes.

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