SEOUL (ANN/THE KOREA HERALD) – Shakatak revealed on their official account on the social platform X on Friday that they have enlisted a musicologist to examine the similarities between their 1981 hit “Easier Said Than Done” and K-pop group NewJeans’ latest single, “Bubble Gum”.
The plagiarism dispute seems poised for a long haul.
“To all our fans and friends in Korea, thank you for all your comments about the usage of ‘Easier Said Than Done’ in several recent songs. Our publishing company Wise Music Group is on the case and has employed a musicologist to take this further. We will keep you posted,” Shakatak stated.
This development follows a request from Ador, NewJeans’ agency, for a credible report substantiating the plagiarism allegation made by Wise Music Group, Shakatak’s publishing company.
On Wednesday, the London-based company, which holds the copyright to “Easier Said Than Done,” sent a certified letter to Ador, alleging that “Bubble Gum” features rhythms and melodies identical to the British song, as well as similar tempos.
Ador denied the allegations and informed local reporters on Thursday that their legal team had requested Wise Music Group provide a credible report to substantiate their claims, and that Shakatak had agreed to this request.
“Bubble Gum,” released on May 24, was jointly composed by Korean music producer 250, British music producer Oscar Bell, and American music producer Sophie Simmons.
