Producer and DJ R.Tee apologized and removed the music video for his new track “DAMDADI” following allegations that it bears similarities to French artist Yseult’s work.
On October 17, R.Tee posted on his social media, stating, “After receiving reports that the recently released "DAMDADI" music video resembles the work of French artist Yseult, I personally reviewed the original video and realized that the production proceeded without prior awareness of the similar work.”
He added, “As the person responsible for the overall project, I sincerely apologize to Yseult for any discomfort and disappointment caused. I will personally reach out to convey my apology. This incident serves as a reminder to uphold respect and artistic ethics among creators.”
Regarding i-dle’s Soyeon, who featured on the track, R.Tee clarified, “Soyeon participated purely out of musical passion and had no involvement in the concept or direction of the music video.” R.Tee also announced plans to strengthen pre-release review procedures and implement an external reference verification system. “We will ensure a more careful and transparent production process in the future to create an environment where creative works are respected,” he stated.
The controversy began on October 11, when Yseult shared on social media that the “DAMDADI” music video resembled her own “BITCH YOU COULD NEVER” video. She pointed out similarities such as office settings, falling bookshelves, and a scene where a male actor’s tie is pulled, describing the similarities as “disgusting copy-paste.”
Yseult criticized the K-pop industry, saying, “The minimum that directors, labels, artists, and everyone involved should do is to credit the source. Like other industries, K-pop has been extracting Black culture like a vampire for decades.”
Following the allegations, director Hong Min Ho of “DAMDADI” apologized on social media. “I sincerely apologize for some scenes that closely resembled Yseult’s original work. I deeply regret if Yseult and her team felt discomfort,” he wrote.
Hong clarified, “It is true that I was inspired by Yseult’s work and directing style. The concept and direction of the music video were entirely my responsibility. Neither Soyeon nor R.Tee was involved in the creative direction or reference selection process.”
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