On the evening of July 3, the music video “Tuý Hoạ” marked the first collaboration between producer K-ICM and singer Xesi. Both artists were showcased in their signature music styles, playing to their strengths. The visuals of “Tuý Hoạ” drew attention for creating a classic wuxia-style tavern setting. However, the comeback didn’t generate the buzz fans expected.
Just a day after the MV’s release, what seemed like a peaceful new project for K-ICM following past controversies quickly turned sour as he was accused by two different parties of “borrowing” concepts without permission.
Specifically, on the morning of July 4, a Chinese danmei (boys’ love) fan account posted a detailed claim that K-ICM copied the costume design of Hua Cheng, a character from the popular danmei novel “Heaven Official’s Blessing” by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. This fantasy xianxia novel is beloved by fans in both China and Vietnam. Hua Cheng’s look is well established not only in the novel’s descriptions but also through fan art and cosplay events.
The fan pointed out that K-ICM’s costume in “Tuý Hoạ” is heavily borrowed from Hua Cheng’s design in “Heaven Official’s Blessing,” despite some altered details. Many netizens were upset that a costume tied to a male-male romance novel was used in a music video with a heterosexual love story. After the issue gained traction online, fans urged everyone to stay calm and wait for K-ICM’s official response.
The drama didn’t stop there. An artist specializing in East Asian-style paintings accused K-ICM’s team of using their artwork without permission in the MV. In a flashback scene, K-ICM is shown painting a portrait of a young woman with a brush.
The painting on paper used as a prop was actually a recreation of the artist’s original sketch. Comparing the two images reveals clear similarities in linework, with only minor differences like added color on the clothing and hair in the MV prop.
We reached out to K-ICM’s team, who said they respect diverse opinions and the expertise of all parties involved. They plan to wait for analysis from knowledgeable voices before commenting further. Additionally, the stylist for “Tuý Hoạ” will post an explanation about the character designs later today to provide fans with a fuller perspective.
