LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT, and KATSEYE clap back at haters with ‘ICONIC BY MISTAKE’
The diss track brings together 14 artists across three different K-pop acts for one super collaboration release
The members of LE SSERAFIM, KATSEYE and ILLIT
HYBE/Peter Ash Lee
Words by Daniel Anderson
Three of HYBE’s biggest girl groups have joined forces for a fiery diss track collaboration.
LE SSERAFIM, KATSEYE, and ILLIT, surprised fans on Wednesday by pre-releasing the music video for their new digital single, “ICONIC BY MISTAKE,” ahead of the track’s official release on Friday. The collaboration brings together 14 members across the three acts for a bold number that fires back at their haters.
The song’s message is clear from its lyrics, which directly address detractors: “Hating me is like all you do/Breakfast to dinner/Algorithm bulletproof,” before culminating in the repeated declaration, “I am iconic by mistake.”
The track carries particular significance given the challenges all of the groups have faced throughout their career. LE SSERAFIM weathered intense criticism surrounding the group’s live performances, including scrutiny following their Coachella appearance in 2024. ILLIT became an unexpected target amid the highly publicized fallout involving NewJeans and former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin. Meanwhile, global girl group KATSEYE has faced online discourse ranging from commentary on the members’ diverse backgrounds to debates over their music and member Manon’s hiatus.
Before the new song’s official release, the three groups are set to deliver the first live performance of “ICONIC BY MISTAKE” on Mnet’s “M Countdown” on Thursday.
The collaboration arrives during a busy period for all three acts. LE SSERAFIM recently released their latest project, PUREFLOW, led by the title track “Celebration.” ILLIT dropped their third mini album, Mamihlapinatapai, in April. And KATSEYE recently unveiled the single “Pinky Up.” Both LE SSERAFIM and KATSEYE are preparing for major world tours, with KATSEYE also scheduled to perform at the Head in the Clouds festival in Los Angeles this August.
Published on June 10, 2026
Words by Daniel Anderson
Daniel Anderson is a disabled Chinese American adoptee based in Seattle. His freelance writing specialties include K-pop, entertainment, and food. He believes that any restaurant can be a buffet, and the key to success is to take a nap each day. Follow his adventures on Instagram @danzstan.