MBN Review Puts “UNDER FIFTEEN” Broadcast in Limbo Amid Uncertainty

K-Pop Audition show ‘UNDER FIFTEEN’ Faces Intense Backlash: Network Responds to Child Exploitation Concerns

MBN’s upcoming K-pop competition featuring contestants under 16 sparks debate about the ethical implications of exposing young performers to the pressures of the entertainment industry.

Published: march 21, 2025

Controversy Surrounds ‘UNDER FIFTEEN’ Ahead of Premiere

The South Korean television network MBN is facing mounting criticism over its new K-pop audition program, UNDER FIFTEEN. Slated to air on March 31, the show features 59 female contestants, all under the age of 16, vying for a spot in a new idol group. The premise has ignited a fierce debate, with many raising concerns about potential child exploitation and the premature exposure of young girls to the intense pressures and scrutiny of the entertainment world.

The backlash intensified as details about the show’s concept emerged. The creators of UNDER FIFTEEN reportedly aimed to form a girl group with an average age younger than that of NewJeans, a popular K-pop group that debuted with an already youthful lineup. This ambition has fueled accusations of pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in the industry,prompting calls for the show’s cancellation.

Netizens Demand The Cancellation Of “UNDER FIFTEEN” As New Details Emerge

MBN Responds to Public Outcry

In response to the growing wave of criticism, MBN released an official statement on March 21, addressing the concerns surrounding UNDER FIFTEEN. The network acknowledged the gravity of the situation and stated that it is carefully considering the feedback it has received.

According to the statement, MBN is currently reviewing the show’s content and broadcast plan to ensure that it aligns with ethical standards and protects the well-being of the young participants. The network has promised to announce its final decision after completing a thorough evaluation.

We are taking the concerns raised by various sectors of the society regarding UNDER FIFTEEN very seriously. We will review the content of the program, as well as the decision to air it. We will announce our final position after completing a thorough review.

— MBN

Ethical concerns and the Commodification of Child Performers

The controversy surrounding UNDER FIFTEEN highlights a broader debate about the ethical implications of featuring minors in reality television and the entertainment industry. Critics argue that such shows can lead to the commodification and sexualization of children, exposing them to undue pressure, potential exploitation, and long-term psychological harm.

In the U.S., similar concerns have been raised about talent shows featuring young performers, such as “America’s Got talent” and “The Voice kids.” While these shows provide a platform for talented children, they also subject them to intense competition, public scrutiny, and the risk of early burnout.Laws like the California’s Coogan Law, designed to protect child performers by safeguarding a portion of their earnings and requiring on-set tutors and counselors, reflect an effort to mitigate these risks, but debates about the overall impact continue.

The age of the contestants is a meaningful factor in this discussion. while child actors and performers have long been a part of the entertainment landscape, many argue that pushing children as young as 14 or 15 into the high-pressure world of K-pop idol training is especially problematic. The rigorous schedules, demanding training regimens, and constant pressure to maintain a certain image can take a toll on their physical and mental health.

Controversial K-Audition Show “UNDER FIFTEEN” Under More Heat For Youngest Participant’s Age And Inappropriate Styling

Potential Outcomes and Industry Implications

The fate of UNDER FIFTEEN remains uncertain as MBN continues its internal review. The network faces mounting pressure from both sides of the debate. While some viewers are eager to see the show premiere and discover the next generation of K-pop stars, others are adamant that it should be canceled to protect the well-being of the young contestants.

A possible outcome is that MBN will revise the show’s format to address the concerns raised by critics.This could involve increasing the minimum age of contestants, implementing stricter regulations regarding their treatment and workload, or focusing more on their personal advancement and education. It is indeed also possible that the network will decide to postpone or cancel the show altogether.

The controversy surrounding UNDER FIFTEEN could have a significant impact on the K-pop industry and the broader landscape of talent shows featuring minors.If the show is ultimately deemed unethical or harmful, it could lead to increased scrutiny of similar programs and stricter regulations governing the participation of young performers. this could, in turn, prompt a shift towards more responsible and ethical practices within the industry.

The Broader Context: K-Pop and Child Performers

K-pop, or Korean popular music, is a global phenomenon, known for its highly stylized performances, catchy tunes, and dedicated fan base. The industry is built on the “idol” system, where young performers undergo rigorous training in singing, dancing, and foreign languages, often starting at a very young age. While the rewards can be considerable, the path to success is notoriously challenging and demanding.

The demanding nature of the K-pop idol system has drawn criticism over the years. Concerns have been raised about the intense pressure on young trainees, the lack of privacy, and the strict control exerted by management companies. Some former K-pop idols have spoken out about their experiences, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices involved in pursuing a career in the industry.

The debate surrounding UNDER FIFTEEN reflects a growing awareness of the potential risks and ethical dilemmas associated with featuring minors in the entertainment industry. As audiences become more conscious of the impact of these programs on young performers, there is a growing demand for greater regulation and more responsible practices.

Comparing Child Labor Laws: U.S. vs. South Korea

The legal protections for child performers vary significantly between the United States and South Korea. Understanding these differences provides context to the debate surrounding programs like ‘UNDER FIFTEEN’.

Country	Minimum Age for Performance	Work Hours Restrictions	Educational Requirements	Financial Safeguards
United States (California – Coogan Law)	Varies by state and type of performance; generally, permits are needed for children in entertainment.	Strict limits on hours worked, including rehearsal and performance time.	Mandatory schooling and tutoring provided on set.	Requires a percentage of earnings to be placed in a trust (Coogan Account).
South Korea	No specific minimum age for entertainment, but labor laws apply to minors.	Restrictions on night work and hazardous activities for those under 18.	Compulsory education laws apply; however, enforcement within the entertainment industry can be inconsistent.	Legal frameworks exist, but enforcement regarding earnings and fair contracts has been a concern.

These differences highlight the importance of cultural context and legal frameworks when evaluating the ethical implications of involving children in the entertainment industry.

What specific adjustments or safeguards should be considered to protect the contestants in ethical K-Pop audition shows?

Interview: ethical Concerns in K-Pop – A Discussion with Dr. Anya Sharma

Archyde News interviews Dr. Anya Sharma, a child advancement specialist, on the controversy surrounding the new K-Pop audition show “UNDER FIFTEEN”.

The ‘UNDER FIFTEEN’ Controversy: An ExpertS Insight

Archyde News: Dr. sharma, thank you for joining us. the K-pop audition program “UNDER FIFTEEN” has sparked critically important debate. What are your initial thoughts on the premise, featuring contestants under the age of 16?

Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. My primary concern is the potential for exploitation and the impact on the contestants’ mental and emotional well-being. The K-pop industry is notoriously demanding,and placing such young individuals in that environment raises serious ethical questions.

Child Development and the Pressures of K-Pop

Archyde News: The show aims to create a girl group with an average age even younger then NewJeans. How does this target age impact your evaluation of the program?

Dr. Sharma: It’s a significant factor. Adolescence is a critical period for identity formation and emotional development. Subjecting young girls to intense competition, public scrutiny, and rigorous training regimens can severely impact their development.The pressure to maintain a certain image, combined with the demanding schedules, can lead to significant stress and potential long-term psychological harm.

Ethical considerations and Industry Standards

Archyde News: MBN has stated they are reviewing the content of the show. In your expert opinion, what specific adjustments or safeguards should be considered to protect the contestants?

Dr. Sharma: First and foremost, a thorough psychological support system must be in place, including counseling, readily available to all participants. Strict limits on work hours, educational requirements provided regardless of the show’s outcome, and a focus on the minors development. Furthermore, there need to be stringent and genuinely enforced rules about the contestants’ well-being and safety. These are really key parts

Comparing Legal Frameworks and protections

Archyde News: With legal frameworks differing between the U.S. and South Korea, especially regarding child performers.What does the current legal landscape highlight in this scenario?

Dr. Sharma: The distinctions highlight the need for both the U.S. and South Korea to be aware of the specific need. The U.S. provides things like the Coogan Law, requiring things like trust funds for earnings and strict work-hour limitations which could be seen as useful. South Korea doesn’t have anything similar, or any way to enforce anything similar. South Korea, needs to have strong legal systems to safeguard the well-being of young performers is crucial. While regulations exist, enforcement is paramount.

The Broader Implications for the K-Pop Industry

Archyde News: if “UNDER FIFTEEN” were deemed unethical, how might this impact the K-pop industry and other talent shows featuring minors?

Dr. Sharma: It might very well be a turning point. If this show is found to be harmful, it may lead to much more scrutiny of similar programs from various sectors of society . This could spur the industry towards adopting more ethical practices. The public’s growing awareness of the potential risks associated with talent shows will continue to place more pressure on networks and management companies to prioritize the well-being of these young performers.

A Call for Responsible Practices

Archyde news: Dr. Sharma, based on your expertise, what is your final thought on navigating the concerns within the future of K-pop audition shows.

Dr. Sharma: The goal should remain to strike an equilibrium between the contestants drive and chance and shielding children from potential harms. There should be greater responsibility on the parts of networks, companies and the industry as a whole, to make sure safeguarding young artists is a top priority. It’s significant to consider: what can we, as a society, do to ensure these young performers are protected as they pursue their dreams?

Archyde News: Dr. Sharma,thank you for lending us your expertise on this important topic.