What’s Going On with ‘UNDER15’?
Two teenage contestants from the K-pop audition show ‘UNDER15’ have dropped a legal bombshell. Represented by attorney No Jung-on of the law firm Sojae, the girls have filed for an injunction to suspend their exclusive contracts with production company Claire Entertainment. The move comes amid growing backlash over the alleged exploitation of underage entertainers in the show, which featured participants younger than 15—even as young as 8.
More Than Just a Contract Dispute
This isn’t just a case of idols wanting out of a bad deal. According to their lawyer, the issue “goes beyond a simple agency disagreement” and dives into serious questions about children’s rights in K-pop, the ethical boundaries of capitalism, and how far adults should go in chasing Hallyu success through kids.
Critics slammed the show for allegedly sexualizing minors and prioritizing profit over protection. That criticism reached such a fever pitch that the program’s broadcast was canceled just three days before its scheduled air date.
The Ugly Side of K-Pop Ambitions?
The lawyers representing the girls allege that after the show’s cancellation, the agency went full throttle on overseas promotions—particularly in Southeast Asia—without consulting the teenage trainees or their guardians. They say the company forced the girls into group housing and international debut preparations, all without their consent. The legal team argues this violates the Korean Constitution and the Development of the Popular Culture and Arts Industry Act, both of which protect children’s basic rights.
To make things worse, the contract reportedly contains harsh penalties for breach—pretty bold, considering these ‘artists’ are 15 or under. There are also allegations that Claire Entertainment could transfer the contract to third parties at will—essentially hijacking the girls’ futures.
The Company’s Defense
Claire Studio fired back, claiming that these two contestants had declined multiple meeting requests and made a one-sided decision to leave the group via email about a month ago. Since then, they haven’t shown up to rehearsals or team activities. Claire also insists it never forced Southeast Asia promotions, adding that its international broadcasting discussions were aimed at helping the foreign contestants—some of whom moved to Korea to chase their idol dreams.
“Saying we forced Southeast Asia promotions is an outright distortion that tramples on the dream of the young participants,” the company said, asking the media and public to stop spreading speculation.
Where Does ‘UNDER15’ Go From Here?
Originally scrapped from Korean TV, the show tried to rebrand itself as ‘Star is Born’ and sought to air via KBS JAPAN. That plan fizzled too—KBS JAPAN confirmed no such airing is scheduled.
What’s the Bigger Picture?
This latest case has reignited a debate within the K-pop industry: How young is too young to be an idol? As long as the business continues to spotlight child trainees, viewers, lawmakers, and agencies alike will need to wrestle with the fine line between nurturing a dream and exploiting innocence.
If ‘UNDER15’ is any hint at the direction, the conversation is far from over.
