In an unprecedented situation, “UNDER FIFTEEN,” South Korea's latest audition program for aspiring girl group members, is already surrounded by controversy even before its premiere. The show's concept, which features contestants who are all under the age of fifteen, has ignited a fierce debate about the appropriateness of such a format, raising alarms among parents, child welfare advocates, and the general public.

On March 25, 2025, an urgent production briefing was convened at the Stanford Hotel Seoul in Mapo-gu, where tensions ran high. During this meeting, the emotional strain on the production team became evident when Co-CEO Hwang In Young broke down in tears in response to the intense backlash facing the program. PD Yong Seok In voiced concerns for the young contestants, stating that their emotional well-being could be adversely affected if the show were to be canceled due to public pressure.

"The contestants are experiencing distress due to misinterpretations of our intentions for the show. It’s truly heartbreaking to witness this. Cancelling the show would have a profound emotional impact on these young talents and their families,” PD Hwang expressed with deep emotion.

Despite the swirling criticism, the production team assured stakeholders that “UNDER FIFTEEN” had undergone rigorous scrutiny by both the Korea Communications Standards Commission and the Korea Communications Commission, passing all required reviews without issues.

What makes "UNDER FIFTEEN" particularly unique is its intention to spotlight the next generation of K-pop stars, aiming to redefine the industry landscape by focusing on youthful talent. However, a teaser video showcasing a contestant in a provocative outfit raised eyebrows, prompting discussions online about the ethics of highlighting minors in such contexts. Critics warned of potential commodification, emphasizing that the industry's quest for commercial success should not compromise child welfare.

As the controversy unfolds, many are left wondering: Is the quest for the next big K-pop sensation putting young performers at risk? As the premiere approaches, all eyes will be on the program and its young contestants, raising critical questions about morality, safety, and the future of the entertainment industry in South Korea.

Stay tuned for updates as we continue to follow this unfolding story. What will be the fate of these talented young performers? Will public sentiment affect the show's future? Only time will tell.