Korean music channel Mnet has apologised for manipulating the results of group talent show franchise Produce 101.
Police had reportedly found reason to believe that all seasons of the popular show were rigged.
Producing Director Ahn Joon Young and chief producer Kim Yong Bum were indicted on charges of fraud, breach of trust by taking bribes, and violation of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act.
Mnet has since apologised, releasing a statement saying: ‘We are taking this situation very seriously, and we are truly sorry and feel a great sense of responsibility.
‘We are internally preparing a sincere apology as well as actions fitting with our responsibility, compensation for damages, measures to prevent this from happening again, and steps for reform.’
Groups created from Produce 101, that are still banded, include Iz*One and X1.
In addition to the producing director and chief producer, South Korean police brought in eight more individuals for a trial on charges of obstruction of business.
Although Ahn Joon Young didn’t officially confess, he said: ‘I’m sorry’ when asked if he admitted to voter manipulation.
He admitted to police during questioning to manipulating the results of Produce X 101 and Produce 48.
The entire production team manipulated the results of the first two seasons of Produce 101 as well.
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s cyber investigation team found differences between the number of votes shown in the show and the real data showing the actual votes that were sent in by viewers.
A source from the police revealed: ‘As the case is receiving much attention from the public, we plan to carry out a detailed investigation regarding the suspicions that still remain.’
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