'UNDER15' show is receiving backlash for dressing young kids in crop tops amidst Kim Soo Hyun controversy

Amidst the growing controversy over actor Kim Soo Hyun's alleged grooming of a minor, PD Seo Hye Jin has come under fire for announcing the creation of an audition program targeting girls under the age of 15.

PD Seo Hye Jin, who led the success of the 'Miss Trot' and 'Mr. Trot' series, recently revealed the broadcast schedule for a new MBN audition program called 'UNDER15.'

According to the program's description, 'UNDER15' is the world's first K-pop audition aimed at discovering K-pop prodigies under 15 years old. 

Among the girls under 15 from over 70 countries worldwide, 59 prodigies, regardless of race, nationality, or genre, will showcase their dynamic charm with their looks, performance, and vocal ability.

'UNDER15' has released two teaser videos featuring the 59 participants. One video captures the participants during a profile photo shoot, while the other features the participants' dance performances to Megan Thee Stallion's song "Her."

The issue lies in the participants' appearances in these videos. The girls, ranging from as young as 8 to 15 years old, are dressed in revealing outfits like short crop tops and see-through clothes, with heavy makeup that makes them look more like adults. Some participants even displayed languid and seductive expressions and performances. This has led to criticism that the portrayal of minors in this way sexualizes them, which many find uncomfortable and inappropriate for their age.

The controversy has intensified due to recent suspicions regarding the late actress Kim Sae Ron, who was allegedly in a six-year relationship with Kim Soo Hyun from the age of 15. The situation has heightened awareness of grooming crimes, with critics pointing out that the aggressive pursuit of the relationship by Kim Soo Hyun, followed by a 700 million KRW compensation demand after their breakup, mirrors typical grooming tactics.

As a result, 'UNDER15' has faced backlash. Critics argue that broadcasting media should not promote the sexualization of minors, especially in a society where grooming crimes are prevalent.

Netizens have previously flooded the teaser video's comment section with criticisms. Currently, 'UNDER15' has disabled all comments on the video, seemingly in response to public backlash. 'UNDER15' is set to premiere on the 31st at 9:10 PM.

After the comment section was disabled, netizens took to a popular online community to further comment:

"Sexual appeal and child exploitation." 

"The show should be canceled."

"The broadcaster is promoting pedophilia." 

"This is really bad."

"Please don't air this show."

"Disgusting."

"They are basically making a show for pedophiles."

"Are they crazy?"

"Who planned this show?"

"They are all babies. What are they doing??"

"Please ban this."

"This country is really losing its mind."

"Oh my god, this is disgusting. What are they doing with these children?"

"Crop top?? Basically sexualizing children."

"Do the producers not see what the problem is?"