A month has passed after all three major networks revived the long-gone ranking system in music shows. Contrary to the purpose of the initiative, there has been no improvement in TV ratings nor the variety of performances.

The two major reasons in bringing back the ranking system were improvement in TV ratings and a more accurate reflection of the public's preferences. Overall, the ranking system was supposed to kill two birds. As it stands, however, both birds are still alive and well, flying farther away from sight every moment.

Unlike the expected rise in popularity due to the re-introduction of battling for the number one spot, TV ratings have stayed low and quiet, hovering around 3-4% across the board.

As for increasing the variety of genres and performances put on stage, that has failed quite miserably as well. The majority of performers still remain idol groups or artists selected from audition shows, leaving no room for new artists from underground or other avenues.

As such, critics are clamoring that without a big change in how performers are selected, TV ratings will stay low because viewers are not going to spend their time watching idol groups perform when they are already in all the other variety shows.

The objectiveness of the ranking system, which was heavily questioned prior to its return, has remained far from effective. The biggest factor considered in rankings is the number of online streaming and downloads. But according to a recent study among the five major music charts in Korea, it was discovered that "most songs, as high as 90%, that make it into top of the charts, are based on what are called recommendations. Basically, you enter the chart if you have connections."

Contrary to what the ranking system claimed to do, it has become increasingly difficult for new artists to showcase their talent on air.