Korean Internet users have taken some of the shine off the solo debut album by G-Dragon, which has topped the K-pop charts since mid-August. The leader of the popular boy band Big Bang has been accused of plagiarism, specifically stealing from songs of Western artists.
The accusations have been so strong that several publishing companies have said they will investigate.
The title track of the album, “Heartbreaker,” is said to have a striking resemblance to Flo Rida’s “Right Round.” Also, the song “Butterfly” seems to rip off Oasis’ “She’s Electric.”
The rights to “Right Round” in Korea are controlled by four companies: Warner Chappell Music Korea, Sony ATV Publishing Korea, Fuji Pacific Music Korea and EMI Music Publishing Korea.
Both Warner Chappell and Sony ATV said they have noticed the similarities and will check with the composers of “Right Round.” However, EMI Music said it saw no similarity.
G-Dragon’s management company, YG Entertainment, has not officially commented.