(MNet's "Show Me the Money 4")

Controversy is growing around the cable television show “Show Me the Money 4,” fueled by problematic lyrics sung by Song Minho, a member of K-pop boy band WINNER.

In a recent episode, Song spouted in verse during a rap battle: “spread your legs wide as if you are at maternity clinic.”

The words prompted criticism for being offensive to women in general, while defenders of Song say that it must not be taken seriously, as it is just a part of hip-hop language and culture.

The Korea Association for Obstetricians and Gynecologists has also issued an official statement, saying those lyrics caused offense and defamation of women and obstetricians who work hard for the sake of mothers and babies, calling for a heartfelt apology from the artist and his agency YG Entertainment.

“Our crew is putting our best efforts to produce the best show, yet we would like to apologize to those concerned, since we have made mistakes, arousing controversies over the lyrics that could be uncomfortable to the viewers,” said the show’s staff in a press release.

Meanwhile, reports also said that K-pop boy group Block B’s Zico, who is one of the hosts of the show, will be back on the show. The singer had been under embroiled in a case where a member of his staff was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. The singer was released shortly after the incident, cleared of any suspicion.

By Ko Ji-seon (jiseonko@heraldcorp.com)