Wrap-up of K-pop Issues for the 4th Week of August 2026! Kio's Aespa Plagiarism, Cortis's Hanroro Controversy, Jennie's Solo

A comprehensive summary of K-pop Hot Issues for the 4th Week of August 2026! Check everything at a glance, from the full story behind the plagiarism controversy between Kiss of Life's new song 'WHAT!' and aespa's 'Whiplash,' to the controversy regarding the mention of 'Hanroro' in Cortis's new lyrics and Gunho and Hanroro's clarification, and even news of Jennie's mini-album 'Fallen Angel' comeback!

 

1. Controversy over similarity in direction between Kiss of Life's 'WHAT!' and aespa's 'Whiplash'

As soon as KISS OF LIFE released the special video for their new song 'WHAT!', Twitter and The overseas K-pop community was buzzing. The main point was that "it wasn't the song's melody, but the music video's visual direction that was too similar to aespa's 'Whiplash'."

 

 

Key similar elements pointed out

Studio Concept: A pure white background filling the entire screen

Styling: High ponytail straight hair & angular frame sunglasses

Moving & Choreography: Direction where a member appears to fall backward, composition where members walk while crossing each other

 

While it might seem like a common directorial choice when viewed individually, the fact that they overlap simultaneously within a single video has led to divided reactions, with some saying "the framing is too similar to be a coincidence" and others claiming "it is just a trendy white-toned production." Currently, neither agency has released a separate official statement.

 

👉 Check out the details of the Kiss of Life vs. aespa controversy

 

2. The Controversy Over the Mention of 'Hanroro' in Cortis' New Song Lyrics and the Positions of the Parties

August 22, group CORTIS premiered their upcoming new song 'MONEYMONEYMONEY' at a concert, but a single line of lyrics that appeared on the screen caused trouble.

 

Adding zeros to zeros in the bank account, just like / Hanroro"

When singer Han Roro's name and her representative song '0+0' were used as rhyming material in the context of showing off money (flexing), a backlash erupted among her fans, with many asking, "Isn't the lyrical meaning of a precious song being consumed too lightly?" The controversy escalated further when the use of the word "mentally retarded" was added to the mix.

 

CORTIS Gunho's Explanation: Gunho left a heartfelt explanation through the fan community, stating that his song was a 'Shout Out' expressed out of respect, as he has always deeply admired Hanroro's music and was greatly inspired by it while studying songwriting.

 

Hanroro's response: Hanroro also warmly offered support on a fan communication platform, saying, "I accept it well as something written with good intentions and affection," bringing the situation to a positive conclusion.

 

👉 Check the details of the Cortis Hanroro controversy

 

3. BLACKPINK's Jennie Makes Surprise Comeback with Mini Album 'Fallen Angel'!

Jendeukie, who swept the main stage at this year's global festival, Jennie is finally back with a solo album! She made fans' hearts drop by giving a surprise announcement of her comeback on August 28th.

 

Release Schedule & Track List

Digital EP (Released Friday, August 28 at 1:00 PM): Includes a total of 3 songs, including the title track FALLEN ANGEL, HEAVEN, and Less than a Lover.

Physical EP (Physical Album): Includes a total of 6 tracks, adding 3 unreleased new songs—sweettooth, lockitdown, and face—to the 3 digital tracks.

 

In the masterpiece-like teaser photo featuring contrasting black and white and red tones, Close your eyes like me. We can fly. Even the wistful trailer narration is perfect in itself... I have explosive anticipation because I feel like I'll be able to feel that insane aura shown as the headliner at Lollapalooza Chicago exactly the same in this album!

 

👉 Check out the details of Jennie's solo comeback information

 

💡 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1. Does the plagiarism controversy surrounding Kiss of Life's 'WHAT!' include the song's melody as well?

A. No! This issue focuses not on the song's melody or musical structure, but on the similarities in the visual concept, such as the white studio background, styling, and specific choreography direction within the special video.

 

Q2. How was the controversy regarding the lyrics of Cortis and Han Roro settled?

A. The misunderstanding has been resolved as Cortis member Gunho clarified that it was "intended as a shout-out to a senior he has always respected," and Hanroro also personally stated that he "takes it in a good light and supports them."

 

Q3. What is the difference between the digital and physical albums of Jennie's new release, 'Fallen Angel'?

A. The digital EP, which will be released first at 1:00 PM on August 28, includes 3 songs including the title track, and the physical EP to be released later will contain a total of 6 songs with the addition of 3 unreleased tracks.