There is a thin line between creative rights and plagiarism and SISTAR is walking it. After a successful promotion period for "Touch My Body," the foursome returned with "I Swear." The song creates a great end-of-summer vibe and is highlighted by the visuals of the ladies enjoying a day in the sun together. The visual concept, however, is the source of an unexpected accusation of plagiarism.

According to Plagiarism.org, it is "an act of fraud. It involves stealing someone else's work and lying about it afterward." This is not limited to copying words or incorrectly quotating an information source--it takes one's ideas into consideration. This is why netizens are directing their attention to both SISTAR's video and that of Dutch DJ and producer Tiesto's "Red Lights" video; and the similarities are alarming. Both videos were released this year and the concepts are almost indentical. From the scene of a young diner worker shedding her apron, to striking similar poses, netizens are presenting a strong case. 

SISTAR is not the first group to face such scandal. Other idol groups, such as SHINee, Girls' Generation and Roy Kim have experienced the sting of being accused of plagiarism within the past three years.

Soompi even reported earlier this year that "Miss Granny" faced plagiarism accusations over one of the songs from its original soundtrack. Greater effort must be made by the record labels to ensure that the creative inventory they access--the music, lyrics and even choreography--is there's for rightful ownership and use.

Also, it would be advantageous to inform other artists if their music or concepts influenced an act of appreciation in advance. Who knows what amazing musical mash-up or other collaboration the world is missing out on from this action? 

Watch the videos for "I Swear" and "Red Lights" above and decide for yourself if it's an homage or a fraudulent move!