Becoming a K-pop idol can take years, and even passing auditions is a challenge in itself. Some are lucky enough to be scouted and secure an audition, while others participate in survival programs for the chance to debut.
However, one survival show made headlines recently for recruiting literal children to find the next big stars in K-pop. After weeks of backlash, the station finally decided to cancel the program. Here’s what happened:
Earlier this month, MBN announced their new K-pop survival programme, “UNDER 15” (언더피프틴 ). As the title suggests, the show will focus on training female contestants under the age of 15 for the chance to debut as K-pop idols. Several icons, including 2NE1’s Sandara Park, were announced to serve as mentors on the show.
Unfortunately for the station, the programme received an overwhelming backlash from netizens. Although it’s normal for teenagers to debut as idols nowadays, K-pop fans still find it unacceptable. Many accused the station of exploiting and endangering children, given the highly competitive and often perilous nature of the entertainment industry.
Others expressed concern upon discovering that some of the contestants were as young as 9 years old. It was previously reported that MBN was reviewing whether to proceed with the programme following the immense criticism. Earlier today (Friday, 28th March), it was announced that MBN would no longer be airing the show.
“After much consideration and debate, it has been decided that the program will take some time to reorganise and protect its contestants. The program’s premiere on 31st March has been cancelled. It will no longer air on MBN,” the company wrote.
It is worth noting that the “UNDER 15” social pages are still active, and as mentioned in the official statement, the production team is currently reorganising the programme. This could suggest that they may still proceed, but with a more careful and appropriate approach.
