Though creativity might seem to demand originality, the reality is that many, if not most, artists take inspiration from existing works. This is quite common across arts and cultures, as artists interpret, reinvent, and channel these influences to produce something unique to their individual style and interpretation. Nevertheless, stark similarities between artworks or projects inevitably lead to comparisons and debate, prompting speculation on the originality of the work in question.

Netizens on online communities are debating the similarities between Taemin’s forthcoming 4th mini-album, ‘Guilty,’ and BTS member V’s solo album, ‘Layover.’ The contention arises from certain fans who have noted an apparent likeness in the design of Taemin’s mini-album to that of V’s.

Some argue that it’s merely coincidental and that artists often share common influences, making their work naturally intersect at times. Others contend that these similarities go beyond mere coincidence and allege Taemin’s album design is plagiarizing V’s.

BTS’ V’s ‘Layover’ album design:

SHINee’s Taemin’s ‘Guilty’ album design:

While fans argued that the two album designs were not similar, some netizens also claimed that the two artists’ albums give off a very similar vibe with the concept of traveling somewhere.

K-netizens commented, “I thought international fans were overreacting, but the albums do give off similar vibes,” “I guess I wasn’t the only one thinking the two designs were similar,” and, “I think they look similar in that they’re both very Min Hee Jin-esque. lol.”

Other netizens commented, “There are so many cardboard box designs out there though,” “To be honest, SHINee was the originator of all album concepts,” “I don’t think it’s similar,” “I think SHINee was the first to make albums like this though,” “But it was Min Hee Jin who designed V’s album, she used to design SHINee’s albums when she was at SM,” “I’m not sure if they’re similar but Taemin’s album seems prettier,” and “I still don’t see the similarities.”

Source: Allkpop.com