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On January 25, 2025, BLACKPINK's Jennie released the music video for her latest single, ZEN, marking a significant addition to her solo endeavors.
While the video garnered attention for its experimental and avant-garde approach, it also became controversial due to perceived similarities with XG's HOWLING and (G)I-DLE's Super Lady music videos, particularly regarding outfit choices and overarching concepts.
On January 26, 2025, some netizens pointed out that certain visual elements in ZEN resemble those in XG's HOWLING music video. Additionally, parallels were drawn between the BLACKPINK idol's attire and themes in ZEN and those showcased in (G)I-DLE's Super Lady, leading to accusations of concept and outfit plagiarism.
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For the unversed, HOWLING, released on November 8, 2024, serves as the lead single from XG's second mini-album, AWE. On January 29, 2024, (G)I-DLE released Super Lady as the title track from their second full-length album, 2. The music video features the group channeling the vibes of iconic second-generation K-pop girl group 2NE1, with larger-than-life styling and matching costumes.
In response to these recent allegations, the BLACKPINK rapper's supporters defended the originality and integrity of the ZEN music video. They argued that there are no similarities since ZEN, HOWLING, and Super Lady differ in terms of concept, song, filmography, and more. One fan on X wrote:
"Xg is nowhere similar to this. They have a futuristic concert mashed with a certain Japanese culture. Jennie's mv is all about elements making her who she is today."
Fans' defense of Jennie underscored the belief that inspiration and shared artistic direction do not necessarily amount to plagiarism.
"There’s absolutely no possible way that they can copy that MV in that short amount of time after howling was released… can y’all stfu," one fan wrote.
"Ho it’s literally directed by the same director. Stop starting useless fan wars and get a life." another fan wrote.
"Wait this is crazy and insane." another fan added.
As the discourse continued, fans reminded others of director Cho Gi-seok's involvement with both Jennie and XG's music videos.
"Get outta here. This is like saying if Miyeon wears a red dress then Jennie a red dress with a different cut then she’s copying. Ridiculous!!! They might be wearing the same “genre” of clothing (a metal headpiece) but they’re completely different items of clothing!" one fan wrote.
"This is literally a headpiece that has been used throughout history? Stop setting up Gidle and trying to bring hate to Jennie." another fan added.
"Its by the same director," another fan remarked.
Jennie announces debut solo album Ruby release date and collaborations
On January 25, 2025, BLACKPINK's Jennie surprised fans with the release of the music video for ZEN, a track from her upcoming debut solo album, Ruby. Directed by Cho Gi-seok, the music video is a visual spectacle that blends intricate set designs with Jennie's dynamic performance.
The BLACKPINK rapper's debut solo album, Ruby, is slated for release on March 7, 2025. The 15-track album promises a rich tapestry of genres and features collaborations with global talents such as Childish Gambino, Doechii, Dominic Fike, Dua Lipa, FKJ, and Kali Uchis.
The album's lead single, Mantra, was pre-released in October 2024 and has already set high expectations for the album's musical direction.
To celebrate the release of Ruby, the idol will host intimate showcase events titled The Ruby Experience in Los Angeles on March 6, New York on March 10, and Seoul on March 15.
