“BLACKPINK Copy? HYBE Shade?” — Aespa’s “Whiplash” Lyrics Spark Controversy
Aespa has made a bold return with their fifth mini album Whiplash, and the title track is already creating a buzz online. After their previous hits “Supernova” and “Armageddon” dominated the charts, there was much anticipation surrounding their latest release.
While the new song has been met with praise from both Korean and international fans, its lyrics have sparked quite a debate online.
In Whiplash, aespa exudes confidence, with one particular line catching fans’ attention: “Cats gon’ copy one idea, two, then the whole look, then deny it.” Some listeners have taken this as a possible dig at those who imitate their success, further fueling rumors of shade aimed at HYBE.
THE HYBE SHADE YOURE SOOO REAL AESPA NO ONE CAN STEP ON THEM pic.twitter.com/oVkKA7Wqkv
— 윈터얼트 (@wntrult) October 21, 2024
Some listeners have interpreted parts of the song as a direct jab at HYBE and its founder, Bang Si Hyuk. The speculation comes after former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin previously mentioned that Bang Si Hyuk asked her to “crush” aespa during a press conference earlier this year.
“Crush aespa” — Min Hee Jin Reveals Damning KakaoTalk Screenshot With Bang Si Hyuk
His comments, paired with aespa’s confident lyrics, have led fans to believe there may be some subtle references to HYBE.
“Cats gon' copy one idea, two, then the whole look, then deny it.” pic.twitter.com/9dDqB6PX17
— 🏁 (@everywonblink) October 21, 2024
Fans have taken to social media to voice their opinions, with some praising the group for their assertive stance, while others accuse aespa themselves of copying other artists, specifically BLACKPINK.
They are literally a copy of blackpink
— Jade (@JPopCrave) October 21, 2024
Who are these people?? Looking like Black Pink copy
— Tiya 💕 (@_Tiya___) October 21, 2024
Comparisons between the two groups’ styles and music videos have reignited an ongoing debate within the fandoms.
The self awareness I knew right https://t.co/7dWuEaIGrF pic.twitter.com/51Me3bIfhX
— raani ✨ (@reena8989) October 21, 2024
love them but the call is coming from inside the house https://t.co/hqAPBKHYMQ
— ericeffiorg (@ericeffiorg) October 21, 2024
As “Whiplash” continues to gain traction, it’s clear that aespa’s lyrics have ignited discussions beyond the music, adding to the group’s ever-growing impact on the industry.