Upcoming K-pop show ‘Under15’ faces backlash for featuring child contestants

Of the 59 contestants, the oldest girls were born in 2009 and the youngest in 2016. Photos: Under 15/Instagram

The upcoming K-pop audition programme Under15, set to premiere on March 31, is under fire for featuring contestants as young as eight, prompting concerns over the sexualisation and commodification of minors.

Industry insiders say the controversy underscores a longstanding issue in the entertainment scene, highlighting the urgent need for improved public perception and the adoption of clearer guidelines on casting children and adolescents in nationally broadcast reality shows.