Korean entertainment continues to struggle with plagiarism allegations, particularly as mediums like K-Drama and K-pop receive increased global exposure. While previous issues have ranged from allegations of uncredited music copying to borrowed drama concepts, recent accusations of pattern copying involving Yoon Eun Hye draw attention to plagiarism within the fashion industry.
The "Coffee Prince" star continues to draw criticism from domestic audiences for her prize-winning white gown which allegedly resembles a design attributed to Yoon Choon Ho.
The initial claims delivered by Yoon Choon Ho, led audiences to examine other designs that were submitted by the actress for the Chinese show, "The Goddesses' New Outfit."
The star received additional criticism after Korean outlets like Daily Sports contrasted two other designs represented on the fashion program which is also known by the name "Goddess of Fashion." Two dresses which Yoon said were inspired by Audrey Hepburn and the iconic film, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" have been compared to designs from international fashion houses. One dress resembled a piece from the 2015 F/W line of Dolce & Gabbana while another closely referenced a piece from BCBG.
While Yoon Eun Hye is not the only star to face fashion plagiarism allegations.
SM Entertainment officially addressed criticism from domestic audiences who recognized styles used by Red Velvet in their "Dumb Dumb" promotions as bearing strong similarities to pieces from the 2015 S/S collection of French designer, Olympia Le-Tan. An article published by E-Daily provided clarification from SM Entertainment, who stated that the outfits were styled internally but purchased from the clothier.
Fashion plagiarism allegations come on the heels of recent claims surrounding Korean dramas. The increased profile of web comics and adaptations from the source materials have led to plagiarism allegations against series like "Kill Me, Heal Me," which was accused of referencing "Jekyll, Hyde and Me."
The popular drama, "Yong Pal" was also the focus of recent plagiarism claims, after the series was compared to the long-running comic, "City Conquest."
While the claims against "Yong Pal" and "Kill Me, Heal Me" were not substantiated, they demonstrate the current climate in Korean entertainment. As Korea continues to generate international attention, audiences throughout the world will focus on the authenticity of concepts, designs, music and programming from the nation.
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About the writer: Adrienne Stanley is a contributing editor for KDramaStars. She is also a contributing writer for KpopStarz, MTV Iggy, Viki and CJ Entertainment's KCON blog. Her passions include a love of K-pop and Asian drama. When she is not writing, she is hanging out on Twitter (@retrogirladdy).
