BTS' Jungkook denies plagiarism charges of 'Seven'

The Korea Times

The Korea Times

Entertainment & Arts

Wed, November 29, 2023 | 03:41

BTS' Jungkook denies plagiarism charges of 'Seven'

Posted : 2023-08-23 15:51

Updated : 2023-08-25 09:34

BTS' Jungkook / Courtesy of BigHit Music

By Pyo Kyung-min

BTS' Jungkook has been embroiled in a plagiarism controversy over his recent release, "Seven." His agency quickly dismissed the allegations as "groundless."

A media source recently alleged that Jungkook's solo track, "Seven," shares notable similarities with key components of Fin.K.L's 1999 hit, "Time of Mask."

The song "Time of Mask" is a rhythmic dance track created by songwriter Yang Joon-young.

The source claimed that the main melodies of "Seven" and "Time of Mask" had the same musical scales and that Yang accordingly filed a complaint to the producers of Hybe Labels. However, it further claimed that the songwriter failed to receive a formal reply.

The album cover of Jungkook's debut single, "Seven" / Courtesy of BigHit Music

In a swift response, Big Hit Music, Jungkook's agency, stated on Aug. 22 that "the claim of copyright infringement concerning Jungkook's 'Seven' is not true."

"'Seven' is a creation of five international composers' collaborative effort, entirely disconnected from the song released 24 years ago. The allegation is devoid of any substantial grounds for judging plagiarism," the agency stressed.

Released July 14, Jungkook's debut single, "Seven," blends acoustic guitars and UK garage rhythms with Jungkook's sensuous vocals. It features lyrics expressing a desire to embrace his beloved every day of the week.

The song proved its popularity by topping the Billboard "Hot 100" chart soon after its release. It further achieved sustained success by staying on the "Hot 100" chart for four consecutive weeks, along with its five-week reign atop the Spotify "Weekly Top Song Global" chart.

pzzang@koreatimes.co.kr