Will singer IU finally be able to wash away the plagiarism suspicions that have haunted her for a long time?
On the 4th, IU's agency, EDAM Entertainment, announced that a decision to dismiss the copyright infringement case filed last May has been made. With this recent dismissal decision on the copyright infringement case, some suspicions have been cleared.
Previously, an individual identified as "A" had reported IU for copyright infringement to the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul last May. The songs suspected of plagiarism listed in the report were 'Bunhongshin', 'Good Day', 'Bbibbi', 'Marshmallow', 'Boo', and 'Celebrity', totaling six songs. Among these, IU participated in 'Celebrity' (as a lyricist/composer) and 'Bbibbi' (as a producer/lyricist).
From the outset, the report was legally flawed as it targeted songs IU did not compose and parts she did not participate in. Essentially, the decision to dismiss was anticipated.
At the time of the plagiarism suspicions, IU's side stated, "We are aware of the distribution of posts based on false information alleging plagiarism and leaflets containing baseless rumors in certain areas," emphasizing that "unrestrained third-party accusations and criminal actions based on false information will not cease."
Furthermore, composers who were subjects of the plagiarism suspicions also actively denied the claims. Lee Jong-hoon, who composed 'Bbibbi', emphasized that there was an "intention to tarnish the artist."
Following the announcement of the dismissal decision, IU's side strongly condemned the "malicious act of reporting and the collective and violent actions against the artist," revealing the presence of blatant and malicious cyberbullying by certain groups.
The agency emphasized that the plagiarism was also part of the process of fueling forced controversies, stating emphatically, "The cruel harassment must stop now." It remains to be seen whether IU will be able to shed the label of plagiarism suspicions that has followed her for a long time with the conclusion of this case.