Cover Story

The popular appeal of ‘Produce 101’

A total of 101 girls try to claw their way to the top but in the sweetest way possible, smiling, singing “pick me” and gesturing imploringly into the camera in the latest K-pop reality show.

At home, the viewers, or “producers,” vote for the contestants they deem most worthy of becoming girl group stars.

Titled “Produce 101,” the popular ...