The collaboration between LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT, and KATSEYE looks like it could be one of the biggest moments for HYBE’s girl groups in 2026. But the “ICONIC BY MISTAKE” controversy started almost as soon as they began releasing teasers.
Fans were excited at first, as the idea of a single song featuring three HYBE artists sounded like an automatic hit. The marketing plan was well-organized, with a music video teaser on June 9, followed by the full video and a performance on M Countdown on June 11, with the official release on June 12. Everything changed the moment that teaser was released.
Why Fans Disliked the Teaser
The biggest issue is the editing. Fans noticed unnatural cuts, awkward CGI effects, and transitions that felt messy instead of smooth. For such a high-profile project, many viewers felt the teaser looked messy instead of polished. The backlash intensified as attention shifted toward the project’s overall look and style.
Some viewers felt the members looked too edited on screen and that the post-production work made them look worse rather than better. Instead of highlighting the performers, the teaser left many fans distracted by the editing itself. People online argued that the digital effects made the concept feel fake instead of futuristic. Since all three groups are known for their great performances, fans wondered why the teaser relied so much on effects that made them seem less impactful.
Separate Filming Rumors Further Fueled the Backlash
Then came the rumors that they filmed separately. On June 9, fans began pointing out that LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT, and KATSEYE might not have actually filmed together at all. That made fans even more disappointed. Many fans wanted to see genuine chemistry between the groups rather than a collaboration put together through editing.
The M Countdown performance on June 11 now feels very important. If they deliver a great live stage, it could turn the conversation around.
