Korean textile manufacturer NS International (NSI) has filed a lawsuit against Chinese fast fashion giant Shein, alleging copyright infringement of original fabric designs.
The case was submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, presided over by Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett, with the complaint officially filed on April 1. NSI claims that Shein unlawfully copied and distributed its designs through unauthorized manufacturing and retail channels.
Shein, known for its low-cost apparel strategy and popularity among Gen Z shoppers, reached the top spot in global brand sales in 2023. The company operates a distribution center in Downtown Los Angeles, serving as a hub for its U.S. market operations.
NSI Seeks Damages, Jury Trial Over Alleged Design Theft
In the lawsuit, NSI claims that Shein “deliberately and repeatedly reproduced” its fabric patterns, which were intended solely for “textile print purposes”. The allegedly copied designs include:
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A long-sleeved bodycon dress
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A three-piece bikini set
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A long-sleeved A-line dress
The complaint also identifies unknown third-party manufacturers involved in Shein’s supply chain as “Doe defendants”, indicating that the case could expand to include additional parties as further information becomes available.
According to NSI, Shein’s actions have caused “substantial financial loss” and may involve more infringing items than the three garments listed. The company emphasizes that the designs were meant exclusively for licensed textile applications and not for widespread consumer sale.
Shein Has Not Responded Publicly to the Lawsuit
As of 6 p.m. on April 23, Shein had not issued a public response to NSI’s lawsuit. However, the company continues to face mounting legal pressure. According to federal court records, Shein is currently involved in over 90 copyright-related lawsuits.
On its website, Shein states that it accepts complaints from intellectual property owners who believe their trademarks, copyrights, patents, or designs have been violated.
The lawsuit by NSI adds to growing legal scrutiny of Shein’s business practices, as the company faces ongoing challenges surrounding its supply chain and alleged misuse of original designs.
BY YEOL JANG [jang.yeol@koreadaily.com]
