HYBE’s upcoming girl group, ILLIT (formerly I’LL-IT), has sparked discussion among netizens after the release of their official logo teaser. While some expressed excitement for the group’s debut, others raised concerns about similarities to existing HYBE groups.
A Glimpse into ILLIT’s Debut
Comprised of the top contestants from the survival show “R U Next?”, ILLIT is gearing up for their debut in March. The logo teaser unveiled on February 26th offered fans a brief glimpse into the group’s concept and visuals. The video showcased the five members, exuding charm and youthful energy.
Mixed Opinions on the Teaser
The teaser, however, generated mixed reactions. While many praised the members’ charisma and potential, others expressed concerns regarding the concept and logo design.
Similarities to Existing Groups?
Some netizens pointed out similarities between ILLIT’s concept and that of HYBE’s recently debuted girl group, NewJeans. Others raised concerns about the logo, finding it too similar to the branding of TXT, another HYBE group. These comparisons sparked concerns about a lack of originality and unique identity for ILLIT.
hybe want that newjeans 2.0 so bad https://t.co/RS8d9Ma6q4 pic.twitter.com/riuaVO1088
— š· (@nwjgenz) February 25, 2024
Hybes 3rd group with this concept now mind you https://t.co/sCkV91kD1u
— leila š¦¢ yes, and? (@desiaeri) February 25, 2024
Netizens Defend ILLIT
Despite the criticisms, numerous netizens came to ILLIT’s defense. They argued that judging the group based solely on a logo teaser is unfair, especially considering the hard work and dedication the members have invested in their journey to debut.
are they notā¦ coming of age????? iām so confused did you want them to be girl crush or something? theyāre teens LMFAO
— youdumdumlmao (@youdumdumlmao) February 26, 2024
am i the only one who doesnāt see an issue with their logo šš the ones complaining aināt even gon tune in so why make a comment https://t.co/9l18r0Q1XY
— āŗĀ¹lana moniā·įįį¢ā¶ (@moniplaylist) February 26, 2024
Finding the Perfect Fit
Supporters of ILLIT emphasized that the group’s concept and branding are designed to suit the individual members and their young age. They pointed out the strategic use of the “+” symbol in the logo, creating a balance with the “-” symbol used by ENHYPEN, another BELIFT LAB group. Additionally, the “cute” and “youthful” concept was deemed appropriate for the members’ age and stage in their development as idols.
negative sign (-) for enhypen and positive sign (+) for I'll-it. pic.twitter.com/AtA5qmDL62
— mocha āšš§© (@sakaimok_a) February 25, 2024
honestly these girls have been THROUGH IT both on that mess of a survival show and in general especially on this app I really hope this debut goes well for them š« https://t.co/AqT6SgJpuc
— WHY vee (@jaedooriz) February 25, 2024
Looking Forward to the Future
While acknowledging potential similarities to other HYBE groups, many netizens chose to remain optimistic and excited for ILLIT’s debut. They believe that judging the group based on a limited teaser is premature and encourage fans to wait and see what ILLIT has to offer before forming strong opinions.
With ILLIT’s debut approaching, only time will tell how the group will fare in the competitive K-Pop industry. However, the mixed reactions to the logo teaser highlight the challenges faced by new groups trying to establish their own unique identity while navigating the expectations of fans and the industry.