Yoo Hee-yeol Apologizes Again for 'Song Similarity' Controversy: "Realized How Inadequate I Am"

'Saenghwal Eumak' Project Album Release Canceled
"We Will Do Our Best with a Responsible Attitude"

Singer-songwriter Yoo Hee-yeol will not release the album for the 'Saenghwal Eumak (Everyday Music)' project, which faced controversy over similarities in its tracks. On the 22nd, his agency Antenna posted another apology on their Twitter account and announced, "We will cancel the release of the LP and digital tracks." This is the second statement addressing the similarity controversy, following the first on the 14th. Yoo Hee-yeol had previously apologized after the second track of the 'Saenghwal Eumak' project, "Aju Sajikin Bam (A Very Private Night)," was pointed out to resemble "Aqua" by Japanese film music maestro Ryuichi Sakamoto.

Sakamoto indicated that the issue was far from plagiarism. He said, "All creative works are influenced by existing art," and added, "If originality is incorporated at about 5 to 10%, it is wonderful and appreciated." He further asserted, "I do not consider this a level that requires legal action to protect 'Aqua'." In response, Yoo Hee-yeol expressed gratitude, saying, "After receiving a letter filled with the philosophy and consideration of Master Sakamoto, I have come to respect him even more as a great artist and a warm adult in society." He also admitted, "On the other hand, I painfully realized how inadequate I am," and conveyed, "Once again, I express my thanks and apologies."

Yoo Hee-yeol said, "Watching the recent controversy, I realize I am still lacking and have much to learn," and promised, "I will think more deeply and examine the creative process more thoroughly." He then apologized to fellow musicians and pledged, "For the young artists I work with, I will do my best with a responsible attitude to set a good example."