CIX cancels the distribution of their upcoming official merch after fans and some netizens complained about the originality of the concept used in the merchandises.

C9 Entertainment said in a statement that they understood why the fans are complaining and they are apologizing because of the misunderstanding. The concept for the upcoming merch to celebrate CIX's second anniversary is "tennis boys", probably inspired by the SBS drama Racket Boys. However, several netizens have pointed out that the outfits of the members and the concept itself is similar to the popular Japanese anime drama Prince of Tennis.

Since the images from CIX and the anime drama are eerily similar, netizens and fans are asking why the plagiarism is blatant in this one. Some of them have said that the similarities are too frequent to be counted as a coincidence.

Aside from legal issues, C9 Entertainment has canceled the sale and upcoming release of the anniversary merchandise and therefore offered full refunds from those who already bought it.

CIX will be celebrating their second debut anniversary this year. CIX is a five-member boy group by C9 Entertainment, with members such as Bae Jinyoung having participated in Wanna One prior to this group. Members BX and Seunghun also rose to popularity as part of the YG Entertainment's boy group trainees, where Treasure was formed.