Supertone Co., a subsidiary of HYBE Labels specializing in AI audio technology, debuted the virtual girl group SYNDI8 on June 27. The group, consisting of members Canary, Nest, Goyo, and Raven, released their first single album ‘MVP’, featuring tracks like “ATOTA”, “My Fantasy”, and “True Color”.
SYNDI8 operates primarily in Nansy Land, a virtual realm powered by sound energy, where members harness unique voices for magical abilities. However, the group’s debut sparked controversy among Korean netizens, with some suggesting strong references to the popular K-pop group aespa.
HYBE’s Virtual Girl Group Poster
Critics pointed out similarities such as member Canary’s name resembling “Kanari”, akin to Aespa’s Karina, and identical height and MBTI. Netizens criticized album covers reminiscent of Aespa’s aesthetics and perceived lack of originality in member naming and character designs.
Despite the backlash, SYNDI8 aims to carve its niche in the virtual realm under HYBE’s tutelage, amidst ongoing discussions surrounding artistic influences and originality in digital entertainment.
