Controversial 'Under Fifteen' Audition Show Pushes Forward with Final Filming Amid Criticism

The audition program 'Under Fifteen', produced by Crea Studio, has proceeded with its final filming despite facing backlash over allegations of child sexualization.

According to TenAsia's investigation on the 23rd, 'Under Fifteen' conducted its final shoot on the 20th at the Bitmaru Broadcasting Support Center in Ilsan-dong, Goyang. A total of seven members made it to the final debut group. With the final filming completed, there are reports that the show is seeking to air on a different network, as its initial broadcast on MBN was canceled.

'Under Fifteen' is a global K-pop audition program that recruited female participants under the age of 15 from around the world. The show has been criticized for promoting child sexualization by releasing teaser videos of young contestants dancing in crop tops and makeup, as well as profile photos displaying barcodes and birth years.

The production team held a press conference on the 25th of last month to address the controversy. However, the situation escalated when it was revealed that their claim of passing a preliminary review by the Korea Communications Standards Commission was false.

Additionally, 129 civic organizations gathered in front of MBN's headquarters to demand the cancellation of 'Under Fifteen'. The show was initially scheduled to premiere on MBN on March 31st, but the controversy led to its cancellation.

At the time, Crea Studio stated, "After deep consideration and meetings, we decided that canceling the scheduled broadcast on the 31st and focusing on protecting the participants and restructuring is the best course of action. MBN will not be airing the show." It remains to be seen if 'Under Fifteen' will secure a slot on another network.