A controversial survival show, “Under Fifteen,” which was previously pulled from broadcast in Korea over accusations of sexualizing minors, has once again faced cancellation — this time in Japan.
The program attempted to air through KBS Japan under a new title, “A Star Is Born,” but backlash was swift. Critics pointed out that this was essentially the same show that had been canceled in April in Korea, merely rebranded for a Japanese audience.
”Under Fifteen“ was pitched as a global search for K-pop prodigies under the age of 15, regardless of race, nationality, or genre. But its trailer featured 17 contestants aged 8 to 15 wearing revealing outfits, heavy makeup, and mimicking adult K-pop idols. The release of contestant profiles designed with barcodes also fueled accusations of commodifying minors.
Given that the producers were already aware of the reasons for its original cancellation, the decision to rebrand and push for a foreign broadcast has sparked even greater outrage.
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