It seems like the debut age for idols in the K-pop world keeps getting younger. Currently, a new audition program titled Under 15 is seeking to form a vocal-centric girl group for global promotion. The show is spearheaded by PD Seo Hye-jin under Crea Studio. She is known for her work on Mr. Trot, Miss Trot, The King of Singers, and the Korean-Japanese Singers Competition.

While Seo Hye-jin has a track record of successful shows, Under 15 is making headlines — but for all the wrong reasons. The program is recruiting children aged 3 to 15 from over 70 countries. Reports suggest that the producer aims to debut a group even younger than NewJeans’ average debut age of 16.4 years.

K-pop fans react with shock

Both Korean and international netizens have expressed shock and outrage, not only at the concept but also at the producer’s remarks. One user wrote, “She was born yesterday — what is wrong with y’all?!?”

SHE WAS BORN YESTERDAY WHAT IS WRONG WITH YALLL ?!?!?2&:&2 pic.twitter.com/Hhc6UqPR9m

— ً (@kep1slay) March 12, 2025

Another commented, “The K-pop industry is starting to look more like a factory exploiting kids than a place for artistic growth… we really need to call them out at this point. Just disgusting.”

The K-pop industry is starting to look more like a factory for exploiting kids than a place for artistic growth..we really need to bu*lly them at this point..just disgu$ting 💀😑 pic.twitter.com/bBjokgGose

— 𝘏’𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢’𝘏🦋 (@__HhAaNnNnAaHh_) March 13, 2025

A stunned fan said, “A group called UNDER 15?????”

a group called UNDER15 ?????? pic.twitter.com/nkaUygsbaa

— momo (@jylssoup) March 12, 2025

Another added, “This is so gross. The K-pop industry is already known for exploiting and overworking their adult idols… imagine the pressure these children will face.”

This is so gross because the kpop industry is KNOWN for being exploitive and overworking their ADULT idols..imagine the strain so many children will go through

— Alix ! 🫎🪽 rw s4 spn (@samboyism) March 13, 2025

More about Under 15

Crea Studio is a production company founded by Seo Hye-jin, known for driving the K-Trot Wind phenomenon with innovative audition programs. Following her move to independence, she led MBN’s hit trot survival show Burning Trotman and the Korea-Japan King of Song Battle, which set viewership records for the network.

Her other notable works include Current King of Song and its sequel, both of which spotlighted a new generation of trot artists. Seo Hye-jin also produced the Korea-Japan Top Ten Show, opening new doors for cross-border co-productions between Korea and Japan.

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