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CReA Studio’s CEOHwang In Youngshed tears while pleading for understanding over the ‘UNDER 15’ controversy.
Even before its first broadcast, ‘UNDER15’ has faced public criticism.
The shows teaser alone sparkedaccusations of child sexualization.
A production team representative stated, “Unforeseen suspicions have been exaggerated as if they were fact.
This has deeply hurt not only us but also the contestants, mentors, trainers, and staff.”
ProducerLee Guk Yongwas absent due to health reasons.
The production team opted for a bold approach, unveiling a condensed 25-minute version of the first episode.
The focus was on the contestants' aspirations and talents rather than provocative elements.
CEO Hwang explained, “Our first goal was to create an audition for the ‘Alpha Generation.’
In the K-pop industry, many under-15 talents are overlooked simply because of their age.
We wanted to give them a chance.”
She also addressed one major misconception about the show.
She clarified that the show was never originally intended to be a girl group audition or gender-restricted.
CEO Seo Hye Jin added, “Younger participants frequently seek auditions.
Many ask where they should train or if they truly have talent.”
She said, “An audition isnt a final destination.
Its just a gateway into the music industry.
‘UNDER15’ was always meant to be a development program where contestants receive K-pop training and grow as artists.
Our show was designed with that in mind.”
Producer Yong emphasized,“This audition isn’t just about debuting.
It’s about learning.
We focused on what they could gain and take away from the experience.”
“There were many instances where they met with contestants offstage to offer guidance,” he recalled.
CEO Hwang explained, “We thought they looked great.
We wanted to showcase a surprising contrast between what people expect of young contestants and their actual abilities.
“However, she admitted they later recognized the potential for misunderstanding.
That was never the intention.
Once we realized the issue, we deleted the content.
This has been a chance to reassess everything from the viewers perspective.
CEO Seo was especially frustrated by this accusation.
She revealed private chat messages with the designer, explaining that the design was inspired by student ID cards.
She explained, “We envisioned the audition as a school-like environment.
It was shocking to see it reinterpreted in such a negative way.
To protect the contestants, weve since taken down all profiles.
“CEO Hwang added, “We removed the problematic images.
The controversy escalated because of external factors, and in hindsight, we should have responded more proactively.
Thats something we regret.”
She said, “We maintained close communication with everyone involved, more so than any other audition show.
“At one point, she was visibly emotional when asked about the contestants reactions.
“Were not that kind of program, so why is it being portrayed this way?”
she said, holding back tears.CEO Seo also struggled to continue speaking.
She pleaded, “Would over 100 staff members really exploit young kids to create something predatory?
like believe in us.
“Producer Yong concluded, “I was truly amazed while directing.
These kids own the stage with confidence.
I hope viewers will also feel moved when they see them perform.”
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