South Korean cable network MBN has officially canceled the scheduled broadcast of its underage audition program Under Fifteen amid growing public criticism regarding the show’s alleged sexualization of minors. The decision was confirmed on March 28, just days before the show’s planned air date of March 31.
Under Fifteen was designed as an international audition program for aspiring girl group members aged 15 or younger, reportedly recruiting 59 contestants from 70 countries. Promoted as a platform to showcase Generation Alpha talent, the program came under intense scrutiny even before its premiere, with critics citing the risk of commodifying minors for entertainment purposes.
In response to the backlash, the production team held an emergency press briefing on March 25 to clarify the show’s intent. “Our original goal was to explore the potential of the Alpha generation through an audition format. We wanted to offer opportunities to talented youth under 15,” the producers stated. However, the explanation did little to quell mounting public concern.
A broad coalition of civic and advocacy groups voiced opposition to the program, including the Citizens’ Coalition for Democratic Media, women’s organizations, youth rights groups, education unions, and human rights bodies. In total, 128 civil society groups issued formal objections, demanding accountability and a reassessment of media standards in content involving minors.
Faced with growing pressure, the production team announced the cancellation of the show’s broadcast and a pause for restructuring. “After extensive internal deliberation, we have decided not to proceed with the planned March 31 airing. The best course of action is to prioritize the well-being of our participants and reevaluate the program,” the team stated.
MBN also confirmed that it would not include the show in its future broadcast lineup until further notice. This decision marks a rare instance in South Korean broadcasting where a project is pulled entirely due to ethical concerns before its premiere.
The incident has reignited broader discussions about the ethics of youth-focused entertainment, especially in an industry where age, appearance, and performative value often intersect in complex ways. Critics argue that while nurturing young talent is a worthy goal, it must be carefully balanced with robust safeguards that protect minors from exploitation.
In closing, the production team expressed gratitude for the public’s attention and concern. “We will strive to ensure that the essence of the program and the sincerity of its participants are never compromised,” they said, signaling a possible return after reassessment, albeit with stricter guidelines.
Sayart / Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com
Courtesy of MBN
South Korean cable network MBN has officially canceled the scheduled broadcast of its underage audition program Under Fifteen amid growing public criticism regarding the show’s alleged sexualization of minors. The decision was confirmed on March 28, just days before the show’s planned air date of March 31.
Under Fifteen was designed as an international audition program for aspiring girl group members aged 15 or younger, reportedly recruiting 59 contestants from 70 countries. Promoted as a platform to showcase Generation Alpha talent, the program came under intense scrutiny even before its premiere, with critics citing the risk of commodifying minors for entertainment purposes.
In response to the backlash, the production team held an emergency press briefing on March 25 to clarify the show’s intent. “Our original goal was to explore the potential of the Alpha generation through an audition format. We wanted to offer opportunities to talented youth under 15,” the producers stated. However, the explanation did little to quell mounting public concern.
A broad coalition of civic and advocacy groups voiced opposition to the program, including the Citizens’ Coalition for Democratic Media, women’s organizations, youth rights groups, education unions, and human rights bodies. In total, 128 civil society groups issued formal objections, demanding accountability and a reassessment of media standards in content involving minors.
Faced with growing pressure, the production team announced the cancellation of the show’s broadcast and a pause for restructuring. “After extensive internal deliberation, we have decided not to proceed with the planned March 31 airing. The best course of action is to prioritize the well-being of our participants and reevaluate the program,” the team stated.
MBN also confirmed that it would not include the show in its future broadcast lineup until further notice. This decision marks a rare instance in South Korean broadcasting where a project is pulled entirely due to ethical concerns before its premiere.
The incident has reignited broader discussions about the ethics of youth-focused entertainment, especially in an industry where age, appearance, and performative value often intersect in complex ways. Critics argue that while nurturing young talent is a worthy goal, it must be carefully balanced with robust safeguards that protect minors from exploitation.
In closing, the production team expressed gratitude for the public’s attention and concern. “We will strive to ensure that the essence of the program and the sincerity of its participants are never compromised,” they said, signaling a possible return after reassessment, albeit with stricter guidelines.
