Mnet Responds To Controversy About The Difference In Waiting Rooms Between Actors And Idols For 2020 MAMA

Netizens were previously enraged at the stark difference between the waiting conditions for the actors and idols present at 2020 MAMA. While actors got waiting rooms with dressing tables…

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…as well as dessert catering…

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… idols had to wait in their cars in the parking lot. They even had to get their makeup done in the dark with the help of phone flashlights.

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Due to the public outrage from fans and netizens, Mnet gave a statement to news outlet, CBS No Cut News. The broadcasting station explained that although it would have been great to give everyone a waiting area, due to the virus going on, they could not accommodate giving every team their own personal waiting room. Mnet explained that there was no reason to be biased against idols.

| @mnet_japan/Twitter

Furthermore, the small stadium had to be used as the other building in Paju where MAMA is usually held, was under construction. There was a small waiting area before artists took the stage, and Mnet explained that the idols waited in their cars and approached the building in order of appearance. They spent some time in the waiting area before going on stage.

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Catering was provided to both idols and artists, although the actors were able to use the I-LAND set as a waiting area. Furthermore, all the idols had pre-recorded the performances, but the actors carried out their rehearsals on the day itself, hence needed the waiting room area. They also naturally have a smaller staff team, allowing the social distancing measures to be kept as opposed to idols who travel with huge teams.