Article: SM under suspicion of foreign designer plagiarism for Red Velvet's new concept
Source: Daily Sports via Daum
SM Entertainment is under suspicion of plagiarizing Red Velvet's new concept outfits.
The designer for international brand Paris 99 said on Instagram, "Greatly appreciate so many of you bringing to my attention k-pop group @redvelvet.smtown wearing garments that take heavy “inspiration” from my work. No one on the team @smtown ever reached out to collaborate on designs, which I would have loved to participate in. The company also took from our imagery which we created with artist @ondine.vinao. It deeply hurts to see large groups, that could have helped out a small designer, instead take from our hard work and brand it as their own. Check out our story for me examples."
Many fans have left comments under the group's official Instagram @redvelvet.smtown asking for clarifications because according to the designer, SM's designs clearly plagiarized his work as evident from the checkered and wave patterns in the dress and straps. According to netizens, "Red Velvet's clothes also have a very similar vibe to those worn by Paris 99 models."
The controversial outfits were worn as part of the jacket photos for Red Velvet's new mini album 'The ReVe Festival 'Day 2' that was released on the 20th.
The group made a comeback with title song 'Umpah Umpah' at 6:00pm KST on the 20th and many are waiting to see whether SM will address the growing controversy.