Li Ronghao Denies Plagiarism Allegations Over Little Eyes, Netizens Cite “Timeline Evidence” to Question His Claims

(Beijing, April 3) Chinese singer-songwriter Li Ronghao has once again come under scrutiny over copyright issues. Following his dispute with Shan Yichun, his earlier track “Little Eyes” has now been accused by netizens of resembling the work of Japanese artist Ken Hirai.

In response, Li stated that the song was originally a practice piece that was mistakenly released by a copyright company, leading to complications in rights management. He added that he is willing to take responsibility for the situation. However, online users later pointed out that copyright registration records list his own company, “Kuya Music Co., Ltd.,” as the rights manager, with Li himself identified as the contact for commercial licensing.

This revelation appears inconsistent with his earlier explanation that the issue stemmed from mismanagement by a third-party copyright company, prompting further skepticism.

Li had also claimed that his former partner, Avex Taiwan, had ceased operations, which contributed to the mishandling of rights. However, investigations by netizens suggest that while Avex Taiwan shut down its Mandarin division in 2013, the company itself continues to operate. Meanwhile, its China branch, though closed in 2011, was restructured in 2018 with a focus on copyright business.

These discrepancies in timeline and management details have intensified public doubts surrounding Li’s explanation.