Mnet's 'Boys 2 Planet' production team has officially addressed the controversy surrounding contestant Kim Gun-woo's alleged misconduct.
On the 17th, the production team of 'Boys 2 Planet' stated that they are aware of the seriousness of the allegations spreading on social media regarding Kim Gun-woo. They are currently verifying the facts, involving not only the individuals mentioned in the posts but also former employees and related parties from B Entertainment. They are also considering whether legal action is necessary.
Recently, social media posts emerged accusing Kim Gun-woo, a trainee on 'Boys 2 Planet,' of past misconduct. The accuser claimed that Kim received preferential treatment from high-ranking officials during his trainee days and exhibited rude behavior towards some staff members. Allegations also included skipping dance classes for drinking sessions with executives and misusing company funds for a trip to Japan.
The accuser described Kim as being referred to as the 'King of B Entertainment' among trainees, using his status to belittle some staff members. They alleged that Kim frequently used abusive language, such as "What do you think you are, you [expletive]?" and "You're a useless [expletive] who will soon be fired." The accuser also claimed Kim made personal attacks, saying things like, "Hey [expletive], you should ask me before turning on the air conditioner."
The accuser further stated that communication with Kim was impossible, leading to endless conflicts. Some trainees reportedly couldn't endure the situation and left the company, paying penalties. The accuser provided evidence, including receipts for psychiatric treatment from August to November 2024 and insurance claims up to July this year. Two additional accusers have since come forward, verifying their entertainment contracts.
As the controversy rapidly spread online, netizens expressed mixed reactions. Some stated, "If true, he must leave the show," and "It's heartbreaking to hear someone needed over a year of psychiatric treatment." Others urged caution, saying, "We should wait for the official statement."
Kim Gun-woo was selected as the center for the 'Boys 2 Planet' signal song, garnering significant attention even before the first broadcast. Given that last season's signal song center, Sung Han-bin, was chosen as the leader of the debut group Zerobaseone and continues to be loved, expectations were high for Kim as a next-generation star. However, the recent allegations are likely to severely impact his image.
Previously, contestants Han Seo-bin from 'Produce 101 Season 2' and Yoon Seo-bin from 'Produce X 101' left early due to past school violence controversies, drawing more attention to this issue. Since 2017, Mnet's boy group survival series 'Produce' has seen all signal song centers, including Lee Dae-hwi, Son Dong-pyo, and Sung Han-bin, successfully debut and remain active in the entertainment industry. This is the first time a controversy has arisen involving a signal song center.
Mnet's Official Statement
The production team recognizes the gravity of this issue and is currently verifying the facts regarding the allegations raised on social media. We are gathering accurate information from the individuals mentioned in the posts, as well as former employees and related parties from B Entertainment. Additionally, we are thoroughly reviewing whether there are any legal implications.
Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr