It’s disturbing to see producers doubling down on Under 15 even after months of backlash. Imagine making a show around kids born in 2009 through 2016 competing for idol fame. They’re dressed in heavy makeup, crop tops, and dance to choreography that’s too mature for them. That premise sparked instant outrage both in Korea and abroad, prompting major concern over the sexualization and exploitation of children.
What Went Wrong and What Happens Next?
Under intense pressure, MBN canceled the scheduled March 31 broadcast. CReA Studio publicly announced that they would “reorganize” and “re-edit,” aiming to salvage the project. KBS Japan (affiliated with Korean KBS but operating independently) tried to promote the show under the title Star Is Born. Less than 48 hours after announcing they had picked up the series, KBS released a statement declaring the show was canceled.
The backlash never died out. Critics called the show disturbingly adult for children. Many argued that Under 15 was branding children as consumable products.
Meanwhile, the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) publicly denied ever approving the show. That claim had been misstated by CReA Studio, triggering a formal complaint. In Korea, regulators only review content after it airs, not beforehand.
What Bigger Issue Is at Play?
At the heart of this is a broader cultural reckoning with how minors are treated in the entertainment industry. South Korea lacks strong legal protections against depicting minors in sexualized media, unlike laws in the U.S., U.K., or EU. Critics have warned that shows like Under 15 could damage K-pop’s global reputation and invite international backlash.
Can Under 15 Still Be Aired? And Should It?
Technically, yes. CReA Studio finished production and could shop the show to a willing broadcaster or platform. They’re fighting an uphill battle: increased scrutiny, public outrage, and potential regulatory action. Even if it does find a home, its legacy will be forever tainted.
CReA Studio’s persistence highlights a critical flaw: the industry’s relentless push for novelty over basic ethical standards. This controversy isn’t just about one show. It’s about how society values the safety and childhood of its youngest talents. Hopefully the backlash will result in better legal protections that’ll prevent shows like Under 15 from being made in the first place. Until then, maybe CReA Studio will finally take the hint and shelve the series once and for all.
