BLACKPINK member Rosé and Bruno Mars’s hit song APT. has become a worldwide sensation, topping charts globally, but it's also facing accusations of plagiarism.

Some online users allege that APT., which has been dominating music charts since its release, resembles a 2013 track by Japanese artist Sawai Miku.

The claims focus on a chord progression used in both songs, a common pattern in music and far from proof of copying.

Despite the lack of any clear similarity in melody, AI-generated tracks mimicking APT. have surfaced, attempting to argue it’s plagiarized.

Fans have come to APT.'s defense, calling out these accusations as unfounded. Comments include, "They're just making baseless claims because the song is so popular," "It doesn’t sound similar at all," and "It’s sad people would rather tear down success than celebrate it."

Since its release on the 18th, APT. has broken records, becoming the first song by a Korean female solo artist to top the U.S. Spotify chart and reaching No. 1 on Spotify’s Global Daily Top Songs.

As a pre-release single ahead of Rosé’s official comeback on December 6, APT. has set high expectations for her upcoming solo album.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

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