KATSEYE’s teaser for their upcoming EP WILD has ignited an online discussion, as fans have noted similarities between its tracklist design and the tracklist reveal for BTS’ ARIRANG earlier this year. While the six-song lineup has excited fans ahead of the group’s August 14 comeback, much of the social media conversation has focused on the visual design of the tracklist, with some fans claiming it closely mirrors BTS’ artwork.
On July 30, KATSEYE released the official tracklist for WILD. Not long after, fans began drawing comparisons to the promotional graphic of BTS’s latest album ARIRANG, which was unveiled in March prior to their comeback. The ARIRANG tracklist had been praised for its minimalist yet impactful design, featuring a color scheme of red, white, and black, with song titles printed in black on overlapping red tape against a textured backdrop.
Fans pointed out that KATSEYE’s WILD tracklist also used black text on red elements, a similarly textured plain background, and comparable sans-serif typography, with track numbers placed above the song titles. This led to widespread comparisons on social media, sparking debate on whether these similarities were accidental or too closely resembled BTS’ earlier design.
Many fans directed their criticism at HYBE, the umbrella company managing both groups’ label partnerships, rather than at KATSEYE themselves. Several argued that the issue stemmed from the company’s creative decisions, while others felt the design failed to provide KATSEYE with a unique visual identity for their comeback. A fan commented,
“Their team absolutely hates them bro this is ridiculous”
Others echoed similar sentiments, with many accusing the company of failing to establish a distinct creative identity for the group. Some argued that the similarities unfairly invited comparisons with the senior group and risked overshadowing KATSEYE’s comeback.
Some speculated that the similarities were a marketing strategy to generate buzz, while others criticized HYBE for a perceived lack of originality. They questioned why the company continued to invite comparisons to BTS instead of creating a unique identity for KATSEYE.
KATSEYE set to release WILD while BTS continues ARIRANG World Tour
Despite the criticism, KATSEYE is preparing to release their third EP, WILD, on August 14. This six-track project includes previously released singles Pinky Up and Animal, along with new tracks Hootie Frutti, Bel Air, and That Way. The EP follows the group’s 2025 release, Beautiful Chaos, and marks their latest comeback under HYBE and Geffen Records.
Meanwhile, BTS is gearing up for their next ARIRANG World Tour stop, with two sold-out concerts at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on August 1 and 2. Before these shows, the group gained attention for their contribution to Christie’s “One Goal: An Auction to Benefit the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.” Items worn by all seven members during their 2026 FIFA World Cup halftime performance collectively raised $300,300, with Jimin’s jersey fetching the highest bid of $110,000. The auction proceeds will support initiatives to expand education and sports opportunities for children in underserved communities.
Edited by Adrija Chakraborty
