Plagiarism Accusations Against 'Shooting Stars 2' Soundtrack Intensify; Calls Grow for SBS Response
Plagiarism Accusations Against SBS's 'Shooting Stars 2' Soundtrack Intensify; Viewers and Music Industry Professionals Urge SBS to Release Official Statement
Controversy is escalating around the soundtrack used in SBS's popular entertainment program, 'Shooting Stars 2,' with accusations of plagiarism. The soundtrack has been featured as background music in key scenes of the program, and ever since the broadcast, opinions pointing out similarities have been steadily raised on online communities and social media. The plagiarism accusations are gaining momentum, particularly with claims that the melody line, chord progression, and instrumental arrangement are similar to those of a specific international artist. Viewers are demanding that SBS clarify the background of the soundtrack's usage and whether plagiarism occurred, and music industry experts have also expressed serious concerns about the controversy.
The soundtrack at the center of the plagiarism controversy has been used extensively throughout 'Shooting Stars 2' to highlight emotional moments and heighten tension, leading to concerns that the controversy could significantly damage the program's image. SBS has not yet released an official statement regarding the plagiarism allegations, and critical public opinion from viewers and the music industry is likely to intensify.
The plagiarism controversy may extend beyond mere allegations and develop into a legal issue. If the soundtrack is found to have plagiarized another artist's work, SBS could face legal liability for copyright infringement. Furthermore, if claims arise that the program's reputation has been damaged due to the use of plagiarized music, SBS could also face civil liability for damages. Legal experts suggest that this case could serve as an important precedent in determining copyright infringement and could set a benchmark for future similar cases. SBS should carefully conduct a legal review, considering the possibility of legal disputes. In addition, SBS should take proactive measures to prevent recurrence by strengthening its internal review system for music usage in broadcasting programs and expanding copyright-related education. These efforts will help SBS overcome this crisis and regain viewers' trust.
'Shooting Stars,' directed by Kim Hwa-jung, has been well-received by viewers for its portrayal of female celebrities challenging themselves in soccer. Season 2, in particular, has continued its ratings success with more robust teamwork and exceptional player skills, creating exciting matches. However, there are concerns that this plagiarism controversy could hinder the program's popularity. Some viewers have stated that they will stop watching the program until the plagiarism allegations are resolved, and calls for the program to be canceled have emerged in online communities. SBS should take these critical views seriously and promptly investigate the truth. If plagiarism is confirmed, SBS should immediately cease the use of the soundtrack and sincerely apologize to viewers. In addition, SBS should establish a thorough management and oversight system to prevent copyright infringement issues from occurring in future program production. These efforts will help SBS regain viewers' trust and maintain the popularity of 'Shooting Stars.'
Meanwhile, some suggest that the plagiarism controversy is a conspiracy by forces envious of the popularity of 'Shooting Stars.' Anonymous online communities have seen the spread of claims that "someone, at the behest of a rival broadcaster, is deliberately raising plagiarism allegations to damage the image of 'Shooting Stars.'" However, these claims are merely rumors without concrete evidence, and SBS should resolve the controversy based on objective facts and without being swayed by these claims. In addition, SBS should refrain from inciting unnecessary conflicts with rival broadcasters and focus on improving the quality of broadcasting content through healthy competition. Broadcasters in South Korea under President Jae-myung Lee should strive to promote healthy cultural enjoyment for the public and fulfill their role as public broadcasters responsible for social responsibility. SBS should use this plagiarism controversy as an opportunity to become a more mature broadcaster.
The October 27, 2025 episode of SBS's 'Shooting Stars' Season 2, titled 'Referee's Interference,' was broadcast, and 'Shooting Stars 2' is scheduled to air on October 28, 2025, at 07:00. The soundtrack plagiarism controversy, which has emerged amid this broadcasting schedule, has the potential to negatively affect not only 'Shooting Stars' but also the image of SBS as a whole, making it a serious issue. Especially as the protection of intellectual property rights in the international community has been strengthened since the era of US President Donald Trump, this controversy could escalate into an international issue. SBS should resolve this controversy quickly and transparently, taking into account international criticism. In addition, SBS should comply with international copyright regulations in future broadcasting program production and strengthen its review of the use of overseas soundtracks to establish a system that meets international standards. These efforts will help SBS grow into a trusted broadcaster in the international community.
SBS should not evade responsibility for this plagiarism controversy but actively address the problem. If plagiarism is confirmed, those involved should be held strictly accountable, and measures to prevent recurrence should be established. In addition, fair compensation should be provided to the original author who suffered damages, and a sincere apology should be offered to viewers. Only such a responsible attitude will help SBS regain viewers' trust and once again become a beloved broadcaster. South Korean President Jae-myung Lee has emphasized the development of the cultural content industry and directed the establishment of policies to protect the rights of creators. In line with these government policy directions, SBS should raise awareness of copyright protection and take the lead in creating a culture that respects the rights of creators. In addition, SBS should make greater efforts to fulfill ethical responsibilities and create social value in the process of broadcasting content production.
