Mnet's popular K-pop idol survival show, "Boys Planet," has recently been embroiled in a series of controversies surrounding alleged vote manipulation and favoritism towards certain contestants.
As the allegations pile up, fans and viewers demand clear explanations and transparency from Mnet. This article delves into the ongoing scandal, exploring the key areas of concern and reactions from both Mnet and the public.
Vote Manipulation Allegations
The "Produce Truth Investigation Committee," which also first raised suspicions of voting manipulation of Mnet's previous audition program "Produce 101," has urged the company to clarify another rigging allegation for their latest K-pop boy group debut project, "Boys Planet."
Jin Sang-wi, a spokesperson for the committee, said "The manipulation of 'Boys Planet' can be explained through two points: the ranking assignment based on the signal song's 'direct cam likes' and selecting the 'Shiny Boys' through visual voting."
Mnet, however, has not provided a clear response, leading to more questions from viewers and fans of the show.
Online communities first raised suspicions of manipulation surrounding "Boys Planet" when contestant Seok Matthew's signal song "Here I Am" individual direct cam evaluation ranking rose abruptly from 35th to 9th.
Alleged Favoritism Towards Seok Matthew
Aside from vote manipulation, Mnet has also been accused of favoritism towards contestant Seok Matthew, who has been receiving an overwhelming amount of screentime. In episodes 9 and 10 of "Boys Planet," Seok Matthew received a total of 16 minutes and 36 seconds of screentime, even though he did not hold an important position in the "Say My Name" team.
This has led to further suspicion and frustration among fans, who feel that other contestants, such as Wang Zihao and Zhang Shuaibo, are being sidelined.
The "Shiny Boys" Selection Controversy
Another part of the contest that stirred controversy is the selection process for the "Shiny Boys," which was not broadcasted at all, unlike other Mnet survival shows.
According to Mnet, the top 4 trainees chosen for "Shiny Boys" were Sung Hanbin, Ma Jingxiang, Kim Gyuvin, and Seok Matthew. However, the lack of transparency in this process has led to suspicions of rigging and mounting criticism.
As Jin Sang-wi noted, "Even in 'Girls Planet,' which is an all-female version 'Boys Planet,' the manipulation has been acknowledged. The content regarding the selection of visual members selected from the trainees has always been disclosed."
Read also: Boys Planet Episode 10: Remaining Performances From 'Artist Battle' + Final Results Unveiled
As suspicions of manipulation and favoritism continue to plague Mnet's "Boys Planet," fans and viewers demand transparency and evidence to support the company's claims. With the mounting criticism, it remains unknown how Mnet will address these issues. Until then, the fate of "Boys Planet" and the trust of its fans hang in the balance.
