Mnet's widely-watched K-pop idol survival show, "Boys Planet," is currently mired in controversy over alleged vote rigging and preferential treatment of particular contestants. As these allegations continue to emerge, fans and viewers are calling for Mnet to provide clear explanations and maintain transparency. This article examines the ongoing scandal, exploring the main concerns and responses from Mnet and the public.

Vote Rigging Allegations The "Produce Truth Investigation Committee," responsible for initially raising suspicions regarding Mnet's previous audition program "Produce 101" and its voting manipulation, has called on the company to address new rigging allegations concerning their latest K-pop boy group debut project, "Boys Planet."

Committee spokesperson Jin Sang-wi stated, "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 yet to provide a clear response, resulting in further questions from viewers and fans.

Suspicions of manipulation in "Boys Planet" were first raised in online communities when contestant Seok Matthew's signal song "Here I Am" individual direct cam evaluation ranking jumped unexpectedly from 35th to 9th place.

Perceived Favoritism for Seok Matthew In addition to vote rigging, Mnet has been accused of showing favoritism towards contestant Seok Matthew, who has been given a significant amount of screentime. Seok Matthew was featured for a total of 16 minutes and 36 seconds in episodes 9 and 10 of "Boys Planet," despite not holding a crucial role in the "Say My Name" team.

Fans have grown increasingly frustrated and suspicious, believing that other contestants, such as Wang Zihao and Zhang Shuaibo, are being overlooked.

The "Shiny Boys" Selection Debate Another contentious aspect of the competition is the "Shiny Boys" selection process, which has not been broadcast, unlike other Mnet survival shows.

Mnet claimed that the top 4 trainees chosen as "Shiny Boys" were Sung Hanbin, Ma Jingxiang, Kim Gyuvin, and Seok Matthew. However, the absence of transparency in this process has fueled suspicions of manipulation and intensified criticism.

Jin Sang-wi pointed out, "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."

Related: Boys Planet Episode 10: Remaining Performances From 'Artist Battle' + Final Results Unveiled

As Mnet's "Boys Planet" continues to be dogged by allegations of manipulation and favoritism, fans and viewers are demanding transparency and evidence to support the company's assertions. It remains uncertain how Mnet will address these concerns, leaving the future of "Boys Planet" and the trust of its fans in question.

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