HOLLAND Calls Out Mnet’s First Gay Dating Show For Its 18+ Rating

He also stars in the show.

Openly gay K-Pop idol HOLLAND has called out Mnet for its 18+ rating of a new dating show.

Mnet’s first queer dating show Provocative Dating Z (also known as Dizzying Blind Date Z), with hosts Lee Eun Ji and Hong Seok Cheon, recently premiered on September 6th. HOLLAND is one of six gay contestants, and he has been advertising the show, excited for the progress and queer representation on television.

Yet, Holland has now called out Mnet in social media posts across Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). He wrote his honest feelings in both English and Korean, expressing his disapproval of the 18+ rating.

The Mnet dating program ‘Provocative Dating Z,’ in which I appeared, has been changed to an age restriction of 18+. I have doubts about it being classified as age-restricted content when it’s a pure same-sex dating program without any provocative scenes. It deeply saddens me that in Korea, the love of gay individuals is considered unfit for minors to watch.

— HOLLAND

HOLLAND recognized that the show does not contain “provocative” or “explicit content.” So, he suspects it’s due to conservative beliefs that minors should not be exposed to LGBTQIA+ content.

HOLLAND is naturally passionate about LGBTQIA+ social issues, such as representation and equality. He especially has declared his hope that LGBTQIA+ kids would be encouraged through his voice.

For Mnet’s new gay dating show, which he features, to be restricted to only adults totally goes against his goals as he always hopes to encourage LGBTQIA+ youth who feel marginalized.