A copyright dispute involving BTS' chart-topping single "SWIM" is nearing its conclusion after three American songwriters moved to withdraw their lawsuit in the United States.

The legal challenge, which began in July 2026, focused on allegations that "SWIM," the lead single from BTS' fifth studio album ARIRANG, shared significant similarities with an earlier demo recording bearing the same title.

According to reports published on November 5, the plaintiffs — Steve Cooper, Jon Sandler, and Greylyn Johnson — submitted a court filing requesting that the case be dismissed in its entirety.

How the Copyright Dispute Began

The controversy emerged when the three songwriters alleged that BTS' "SWIM" incorporated musical elements resembling their previously created work.

The lawsuit named HYBE, HYBE America, BigHit Music, and several individuals credited with writing the song, including renowned songwriter and producer Ryan Tedder.

Importantly, BTS and its individual members were not named as defendants, even though group leader RM is among the credited contributors to the track.

BigHit Music rejected the allegations, maintaining that the song had been developed independently. The company also indicated its willingness to defend the composition through the legal process.

A Significant Development in the Case

The plaintiffs' decision to withdraw their claims represents a major turning point in the dispute.

Rather than continuing to pursue the allegations in court, their attorneys requested the dismissal of the entire lawsuit.

While the precise reasons behind the withdrawal have not been publicly detailed in the referenced report, the development signals a potential conclusion to the legal proceedings.

It is important to distinguish the withdrawal of a lawsuit from a judicial ruling on the underlying copyright allegations. The reported filing does not establish that a court formally determined whether infringement occurred.

"SWIM" Remains a Milestone in BTS' Global Career

Beyond the legal controversy, "SWIM" holds an important place in BTS' musical achievements.

Released as the lead track from ARIRANG, the song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 2026, becoming BTS' seventh chart-topping single on the prestigious US chart.

The achievement further highlighted the group's enduring international popularity and its ability to attract mainstream audiences worldwide.

As one of the most influential acts in contemporary K-pop, BTS continues to demonstrate how Korean artists can compete at the highest level of the global music industry.

What This Means for BTS and the K-pop Industry

The withdrawal of the lawsuit is a notable development for the companies and creative professionals involved in the production of "SWIM."

Copyright disputes involving internationally successful songs often attract considerable public attention, particularly when major entertainment companies and prominent producers are involved.

This case also highlights the importance of songwriting documentation, creative ownership, and intellectual property management in an increasingly interconnected music industry.

For BTS fans, the latest development shifts attention away from the legal allegations and back toward the group's music and international achievements.

Looking Ahead

With the plaintiffs requesting dismissal, the copyright dispute surrounding "SWIM" appears to be approaching its end, subject to the court's handling of the filing.

Meanwhile, the song's Billboard success remains a defining achievement in BTS' career, reinforcing the group's position as a major force in global popular music.

As BTS continues its musical journey, "SWIM" stands as another example of the group's remarkable commercial reach and lasting influence on K-pop's worldwide expansion.

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