They have taken things into their own hands.

ADOR recently uploaded an official statement on Instagram regarding plagiarism claims for NewJeans’ song “Bubble Gum.”

First, they thanked fans for their unconditional love and support as the group celebrated its second debut anniversary.

“Hello, this is ADOR. First, we would like to thank fans for their love and support. It’s been a wave of emotions these past three months, from releasing the ‘Bubble Gum’ music video to performing ‘Supernatural’ last week. It’s also the group’s second debut anniversary.

It’s been amazing to see so many fans supporting the girls for every performance in Korea and Japan and the fan meeting at the Tokyo Dome. We want to truly thank the members and staff who worked hard to make all this happen despite unforeseen difficult circumstances.

Although we celebrate, we are also aware of the rumors and claims spreading through social media. We plan on setting things straight and addressing the issue.”

— ADOR

They also pointed out the facts regarding the plagiarism claims.

1. The “Bubble Gum” music video was released on April 26. On May 20, we received an email via HYBE from UK’s Wise Music Group, represented by Edition Korea, saying there are similarities between “Bubble Gum” and a song by Shakatak.
2. On May 21, the songwriters of “Bubble Gum” responded that they never heard the song “Easier Said Than Done” before the claims were made, meaning they couldn’t have used Shakatak’s music without permission.
3. As the media picked up the news on May 13, colliding with the dispute with HYBE, ADOR requested a professional analysis from two overseas musicologists.
4. On June 17, we received mail from Shakatak’s legal representative, in which we responded, “We have responded to Shakatak’s claims stating that we did not use their music without permission and requested they provide credible report proving any illegal use.”

They explained the clear differences between the songs.

“‘Bubble Gum’ and ‘Easier Said Than Done’ start with different chord progressions (D Major9 x2- C# minor7- F# minor7), and the bpm and overall flow and atmosphere are different.

The claims of unauthorized use are different from the truth as they concern something so simple as a melody sounding similar. This is also difficult to argue as it is a melody that is popular in pop music and was used even before the release of ‘Easier Said Than Done.’

Although we have objected to the claims, we requested that they provide an official analysis to discuss the issue further. With plagiarism claims, it is expected to provide for a report. However, the media have portrayed this in a negative light, making it look like asking for a report is an unethical demand. Since we have nothing to hide, we will go through the process of clarifying everything openly. Although this is the procedure for these allegations, it’s difficult to understand why ADOR is facing pushbacks.”

— ADOR

They also pointed out the problems and limitations with HYBE

“We are also aware of the various issues related to how media outlets are covering the issue in terms of communication from HYBE, who handles ADOR’s PR. Although we are going through a formal process, some outlets have gotten out of hand, accusing us of actions long after they’ve taken place or siding with one side without verifying the information. Some outlets have posted negatively, distorting our accomplishments in Japan and spreading false information with skewed articles with questionable sources.

We also have doubts about how HYBE handled the complaint, as they are in charge of ADOR’s PR, which involves communicating with the press. It would only be suitable for them to communicate with ADOR first after receiving the complaint from Shakatak, but despite the highly sensitive nature of the issue, they shared the content with other departments, getting more people involved in the issue than was needed.

While they should have worked with us to minimize negative press, they expressed a passive attitude despite our request for them to be more proactive. And because HYBE is in charge of legal and PR issues, they have the responsibility to protect NewJeans from any issues that may arise. Although we have repeatedly asked them to amend this system, nothing has changed.”

— ADOR

Lastly, they presented their solution to the current issue.

“With this, we have decided to take things into our own hands. The matter is being looked into by legal teams representing Beasts And Natives Alike, and songwriters and publishers. We are using our own people to look into the situation and working hard to report malicious comments and content online.

Although HYBE’s legal team said it was difficult to track down malicious comments, especially those without an account, ADOR’s Min Hee Jin requested to meet with the online forum DC Inside’s CEO, Kim Yoo Sik.

She met with the CEO and found methods to track down such users. She was surprised to learn that there is a hotline for agencies to use to work with authorities to track down anonymous comments. We are disclosing this here to remind anyone who thinks they can hide behind anonymity. We will do everything it takes to take down these comments and use everything we can to defend NewJeans.

NewJeans has worked hard despite everything that has happened. They will be taking a well-deserved break before returning with another exciting project. We also have a lot of surprising content prepared, so watch for that. Thank you for your never-ending love and support for NewJeans.”

— ADOR