Mnet Faces Backlash over controversial Caption Targeting ‘Boys II Planet’ Trainee
Table of Contents
Seoul, South Korea – August 15, 2025 – The South Korean entertainment company Mnet is facing critically important criticism following a segment on the ongoing reality competition show, Boys II Planet. The controversy centers around a caption displayed during a recent episode featuring trainee Zihao of the group Boy Story, which many viewers interpreted as mocking his appearance.
The Context: ’Boys II Planet’ adn Zihao’s Journey
Boys II Planet is currently in its initial stages, with 48 trainees remaining after the first round of eliminations. The show features several contestants who have already debuted with other groups, including members of JYP Entertainment’s Boy Story. Zihao, the group’s lead vocalist and dancer, previously faced online criticism regarding his visuals before the show’s premiere. Despite this, he has continued too garner support from fans who appreciate his talent and skills.
During the recent episode, trainees discovered standees representing the remaining contestants. Zihao’s standee was positioned in the center, accompanied by a caption reading, “The center visual! But in the next life…with a better choice…“
The Outcry: Accusations of Mockery and Online Backlash
Viewers quickly interpreted the caption as a disparaging remark about Zihao’s appearance, suggesting he would only be considered visually appealing in another life. This interpretation fueled a wave of criticism directed at Mnet, with many accusing the network of intentionally mocking the trainee. Social media platforms, particularly Twitter, became a focal point for expressing outrage.
one Twitter user wrote, “Mnet is rude to Liz hao. As the child is laughing it off, do they think it’s okay to act like total jerks? you’re not adults, are you?” Another user stated, “Li Zihao, who was born in 2004, hasn’t even graduated yet, and rather of protecting him, the production team endlessly mocks him. It’s not about wanting him to get fan support-it’s about realizing that mocking someone’s appearance is rude.”
Did You Know?
The practice of using appearance-based commentary in entertainment shows has been a long-standing issue in South Korea,ofen sparking debates about beauty standards and the pressure faced by idols.
Mnet’s Response and Broader Implications
As of this writing, Mnet has not issued a formal response to the criticism. The incident raises broader questions about the responsibility of entertainment companies and producers in safeguarding the well-being of contestants,particularly in highly competitive environments. The incident also highlights the pervasive influence of societal beauty standards and the potential for harmful commentary to impact individuals’ self-esteem.
Pro Tip: When engaging with online content, it’s crucial to critically evaluate the source and consider the potential impact of your comments on others.
what steps should entertainment companies take to prevent similar incidents in the future? And how can viewers contribute to a more positive and supportive environment for aspiring artists?
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Boys II Planet Premiere | N/A |
| Zihao Faces Initial Online Criticism | Prior to show premiere |
| Controversial Episode Airs | August 15, 2025 |
| social Media Backlash Begins | August 15, 2025 |
The K-pop industry is known for its rigorous training systems and intense competition.Trainees often face immense pressure to meet exacting standards of performance and appearance. This incident with Zihao underscores the need for greater sensitivity and ethical considerations within the industry, particularly regarding the treatment of young performers. The ongoing conversation about mental health and well-being in the entertainment world is crucial for fostering a more supportive and lasting environment for artists.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ‘Boys II Planet’ Controversy
- What is ‘Boys II Planet’? A reality competition show focused on discovering and debuting a new boy group.
- Who is Zihao? A member of the JYP Entertainment group Boy Story and a contestant on ‘Boys II Planet’.
- What was the controversial caption? “The center visual! But in the next life…with a better choice…” displayed alongside Zihao’s standee.
- Why is the caption considered problematic? Viewers interpreted it as a mocking comment about Zihao’s appearance.
- Has Mnet responded to the criticism? As of August 15, 2025, Mnet has not issued a formal statement.
Thank you for reading! We hope you found this article insightful.Please share it with your friends and family, and don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your thoughts.Subscribe to our newsletter for more breaking news and in-depth analysis.
