Did NCT's Taeyong Copy BTS' Swim For Debut Solo Album? Here's What Fans Are Saying

NCT member Taeyong recently released a teaser video for his highly anticipated first solo album, WYLD. However, the teaser drew unexpected criticism online as many ARMYs pointed out that the teaser appeared similar to BTS’ Swim music video, which prominently featured a ship. However, NCTzens defended Taeyong, arguing that nautical themes have long existed in media and that the accusations were overblown. Fans also noted that Taeyong’s own experience serving in the Navy could explain his choice of concept. The debate has left K-pop fans divided on social media.

NCT's Taeyong copied BTS' Swim?

NCT’s Taeyong has recently come under scrutiny online after allegations surfaced that his upcoming solo album, WYLD, copied its concept from BTS’ Swim from ARIRANG. The controversy began after SM Entertainment released a brief black-and-white teaser for the album on May 7, 2026. Fans quickly noticed the visual similarities between Taeyong’s sailor and naval imagery and the themes seen in BTS’ Swim, as both featured boats prominently.

TAEYONG 태용 'WYLD' Clip pt. 5https://t.co/aT3wOoCH0ETAEYONG 【WYLD - The 1st Album】➫ 2026.05.18 6PM (KST)💿 Pre-save&add&orderhttps://t.co/i6PRrJ2K3UEVERYTHING, ALL AT ONCE, NEOhttps://t.co/cXqEtSCTSI

#TAEYONG #태용#WYLD #TAEYONG_WYLD #NCT #NCT127… pic.twitter.com/Q2LQzzOE7D

— NCT (@NCTsmtown) May 7, 2026

The comparisons have sparked heated debate among fans. While some ARMYs (BTS fans) have previously accused groups under SM Entertainment of taking inspiration from BTS' songs, videos, and concepts, Taeyang's supporters have defended the teaser, saying the sailor motif could be related to his service experience in the South Korean Navy.Additional discussions focused on the type of vessels shown, as Taeyong’s teaser featured a classic old ship, whereas BTS’ Swim showcased a modern yacht. Fans argued that maritime imagery, boats, pirates, and ocean settings, have been a recurring theme across K-pop, not unique to any one group. Others pointed out that groups like ATEEZ and TWICE had previously released music videos with similar concepts long before ARIRANG debuted.

What is BTS' Swim about?

Swim is the title track from BTS' comeback album ARIRANG. an alternative pop song that explores themes of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming life’s emotional challenges. The song serves as a source of personal inspiration, encouraging listeners to move forward at their own pace despite the chaos. Here, the ocean symbolizes people's deep emotions, struggles, and the faint light of hope that guides them through them.Speaking about why the music video used a boat, it represents a safe space for growth, moving through both tranquil and tumultuous times. The members of BTS are depicted as the drivers of the 'Wheel of Time', guiding the passengers (representing fans) through the pain of the past and the path to the future.