The highly anticipated sci-fi epic, Kalki 2898 AD, has found itself embroiled in controversy after a renowned South Korean artist, Sung Choi, accused the film's makers of plagiarism. Choi, who has worked for major studios like Marvel, Disney, Warner Bros, and Netflix Animation, took to social media to express his outrage, highlighting striking similarities between the opening scene of the Kalki 2898 AD trailer and his own artwork, published a decade ago.

The disputed scene depicts a dystopian city set in the film's post-apocalyptic 2898 AD world. Choi, a concept illustrator and designer, shared a side-by-side comparison of his artwork and the trailer frame, emphasizing the uncanny resemblance.

In a statement accompanying the collage, Choi stated, Unauthorized use of the artwork is a bad practice. This makes me question doing art in this lawless environment. @Kalki2898AD @VyjayanthiFilms #kalki2898ad.

Following Choi's public accusation, social media users rallied behind him, expressing their disappointment and urging the film's team to address the allegations. Many pointed out that the trailer's overall aesthetic appeared heavily influenced by other popular sci-fi franchises like Dune, Mad Max, and even video games like Halo and Death Stranding.

While some users defended director Nag Ashwin, arguing that he might be unaware of the plagiarism, others remained unconvinced, citing the blatant similarities in the disputed opening scene. They questioned how the film's concept designers could remain silent on the issue.

The film's team has yet to respond to Choi's accusations. Kalki 2898 AD, starring Pan India Star Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Disha Patani, is set to release on June 27th. The film's plot revolves around a dystopian future where the city of Kashi struggles for survival. The story unfolds as Ashwathama, from the epic Mahabharata, returns after decades of hiding, while citizens and scientists await a prophesied incarnation.