Kim Jae Joong addresses appearance critique controversy on 'Boys II Planet'

Kim Jae Joong has addressed recent backlash regarding his comments on Mnet’s audition program 'Boys II Planet', after criticism from some international viewers that he had evaluated contestants based on appearance and weight. The remarks in question were featured during his judging role on the show, prompting him to speak out on July 27 (KST) through a live broadcast on Weverse, followed later by a detailed response on Instagram.

During the Weverse Live, Kim Jae Joong explained that at the time of evaluation, most of the contestants were already top-tier performers rated as “All-Star.” However, because about 10% showed particularly outstanding potential, he thought adding visual transformation elements could amplify their impact during the next stage.

“They were already very skilled, so I thought even a slight change in visual presentation would add a bonus and help them leave a stronger impression. It wasn’t about looks—it was about stage presence,” he explained.

He added that the feedback was a reminder, as the trainees had already heard similar advice from his original company.

“I brought it up again only as a reminder. After filming, I spoke directly with the trainee, and he understood where it came from. Of course, from a viewer’s perspective, edited clips can be misleading, but we had honest conversations off-camera. We knew each other’s intentions.”

He also shared that he had gifted Korean language textbooks to the contestants, a gesture that fans praised as a thoughtful show of support.

“As someone who’s been following their journey, I genuinely wanted to help them shine,” he added.

Also, Kim Jae Joong issued a more detailed explanation through an Instagram comment addressed to a fan, as follows:

I see that it came across that way to you, and if so, I sincerely apologize.

To clarify — I did not make any remarks intended to criticize someone’s appearance. It seems the footage was edited. The topic of dieting came up only because the trainee had already acknowledged it himself.

It wasn’t meant to be hurtful — it was not said to shame him, but rather to encourage him to show an even better performance during evaluations. The PD also mentioned that it was brought up simply as a reminder, so please don’t misunderstand.

(Even a small physical change through dieting can sometimes make a dramatic difference on stage, and I had hoped it could help bring out that transformation — that’s why I brought it up.)

I support all of the participants and truly wish for their growth. As someone who has rooted for them from the beginning, I wanted to offer sincere and constructive advice rather than superficial praise.

The broadcast doesn’t show everything. Behind the scenes, we had meaningful conversations and exchanged mutual respect.

I understand that some fans and viewers may have felt uncomfortable, and I sincerely apologize. But I hope you won’t judge the situation based only on the edited footage.

The masters understand the participants’ sincerity and the weight of their dreams better than anyone. So even if our words seem strong at times, they come from a desire to support and protect the trainees' futures.

More than just evaluation, we want to help them realize the value of their dreams and the light they carry. I hope you can understand that intention.

This response may not erase all discomfort. But if the situation was misunderstood and caused concern for those who support the participants, I felt it was important to share my honest thoughts.

For reference, I’ve followed their journey and voice stories from the beginning — I was always there, cheering them on in person.

I truly hope every one of these boys gets to achieve his dream.

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