Drama Unfolds in SBS’ Universe League Episode 4
The latest installment of SBS’ audition survival show, Universe League, aired its fourth episode, showcasing the talents of 42 idol trainees in a competition hosted by former 2PM member Jay Park. This season serves as the male counterpart to the earlier series, Universe Ticket, and features contestants competing in five distinct stages, notably labeled as P.R.I.S.M, which stands for Pick, Represent, and Intercept.
Team Dynamics and Mentorship
In this competitive setup, the contestants are organized into three teams, each mentored by a renowned director. These mentors are seasoned artists who guide the trainees as they aim for the coveted Prism Cup, a symbol of their potential debut. The team lineups include:
- Team Rhythm, led by WayV’s Ten and YangYang
- Team Groove, under the direction of Changsub from BTOB
- Team Beat, mentored by Yugyeom from GOT7 and EL CAPITXN
Original Songs and Fan Reactions
During this episode, mentors presented original tracks to the contestants, who then performed in their respective teams. The directors encouraged feedback by asking contestants if the melodies reminded them of any specific artists. One trainee notably mentioned, “It has ‘Fiction’ vibes,”drawing a comparison to the iconic group BIGBANG.
Changsub defended his song choice, expressing his intention to invoke nostalgia for the second-generation K-pop era. However, this sparked considerable debate among fans, particularly from the Starlights, the fandom of VIXX, who felt that the original similarities to VIXX’s “Error” were overlooked.
Changseob, the song you made wasn’t Big Bang or Beast, but VIXX Error and John JJK…? pic.twitter.com/Jme1X4X3ne
— Left Right❤️💙 (@SUPADUPAMY) December 14, 2024
Fans quickly noted striking similarities, particularly in the choreography and melodies. Many argued that elements such as a similar domino effect in the dance and comparable melodic lines were evident. One user emphasized that the intro of the new song was notably a pitched-down version of VIXX’s track.
Here is why this is so much more THAN THE INTRO PIANO SAMPLE: a thread. I understand we are only given a preview, but the preview is almost a minute long, which is quite substantial for a song (this is at least 1/3 of a full song). https://t.co/CshE84QZCZ pic.twitter.com/7ti1yQYuvu
— Kizuno_K (@kizuno_k) December 16, 2024
Support and Controversy Among Fans
While Starlights expressed their concerns over the similarities, Melodys, the fandom of BTOB, were quick to defend Changsub’s intentions. Some fans argued that the criticism was premature, as not enough of the song had been revealed to warrant accusations of plagiarism.
This is NOT plagiarism AT ALL. You guys are talking about an intro piano sample, we didn’t even have the whole song out yet you guys are making a fuss?
— tata do changsub / universe league era (@TESTADASEI) December 15, 2024
The ongoing debate highlights a broader conversation within the K-pop community surrounding originality, inspiration, and the fine line between homage and plagiarism. As fans await the full release of the tracks involved, it’s clear that the dynamics of creation in the music industry will continue to ignite passionate discussions.
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