“Project 7” is a collaboration between SLL, Studio Slam and YG Plus, aiming to support a debut lineup under a jointly established label. However, given that JTBC’s previous idol audition shows ratings recorded in the 0% range, expectations are low. Additionally, Ryan Jhun, who had previously been criticized for his remarks about sexual harassment, was brought back as director, fueling further backlash.
“Project 7,” which will premiere on October 18, is an idol audition program where viewers directly select participants for each round from the first vote, forming new teams and nurturing the growth of their favorite participants. The show tries to differentiate itself by introducing concepts of “assembly” and “reinforcement”.
While buzz and fan engagement are typically more important than ratings for audition shows, ratings can’t be entirely ignored. In this regard, the JTBC hearings did not fare well.
For example, “Girls on Fire,” which ended in June, was Korea’s first female vocal group formation project. The top five finalists were Yang Irae, Lee Nayoung, Lee Sooyoung, Hwang Seyoung and Kang Yoonjung. Although they were expected to be active after the show, no plans for musical activity have been announced to date. The program itself also suffered the humiliation of 0% ratings across all 11 episodes.
Similarly, “Peak Time,” which aired in 2021, ended with a shameful 0% ratings and weak fan engagement. The group VANNER won the competition with a final vote count of 293,219, a remarkably low number for an idol audition program, highlighting the lack of interest from the public.
Additionally, “Peak Time” faced controversy over the qualifications of its judges. Producer Ryan Jhun, who previously made sexually inappropriate comments about female idols, became the center of this controversy. At the time, it was revealed that Ryan Jhun had used derogatory terms to sexually harass female idols in an online gallery, sparking widespread criticism.
As the controversy grew, Ryan Jhun apologized, saying: “If I knowingly used the word, then it was intentional and you can criticize me. I didn’t know the word. I’m just saying I didn’t know. If you were offended, I’m sorry.” However, his informal apology only sparked further reactions. Many argued that he was not qualified to serve as a judge for an idol audition program.
Despite being aware of this public perception, JTBC has once again chosen Ryan Jhun as director for “Project 7.” Ryan Jhun emphasized his dedication to the project, “As I worked on “Project 7,” I learned and grew. I got emotionally involved and, as a person, even shed tears. I’m not coercive as a director; I’m working together with everyone.”
It seems that JTBC believes that Ryan Jhun’s apology was enough to resolve the dispute. Despite the promises of unprecedented dimensions and richness of content, the future of “Project 7” already appears uncertain.
Source: Daum
