Block B's Zico Gives Rookie Artists Some Love On 'Show Me The Money 4'

Despite being one of the stricter judges on Mnet's Show Me the Money 4, fans uncovered good intentions in Block B's Zico's strange actions.

The first episode of Show Me the Money 4 aired on June 26. Fans were quick to note just how strict most of the judges were as they combed through the roughly 7,000 applicants for the preliminary rounds. Block B's leader Zico was no exception. However, many also noted a trend in how Zico would deny applicants.

During a section of the show about idol rappers, Zico was shown judging a series of applicants who referred to themselves as "idols." As Zico shook their hands he would ask each one, "You're an idol? Where are you from?" This left many fans wondering why he kept asking contestants about their affiliated groups and companies right after they failed the audition round.

According to Insight, an online community found the answer through an old interview with Zico from 2011. In the interview he is asked what he would say if given ten minutes of air time on a television program. "During those ten minutes I would take three for myself and give the remaining to other rookie groups. I think three is all we need. There are other groups in the same situation as we are," Zico replied.

At the time Block B were still rookies themselves and understood how difficult it was to get their name out to the public. Many fans, then, are speculating that Zico asked the contestants their groups in order to give them time on television to promote themselves, even if it was short.

Zico may have been a tough judge, but he still showed a caring side to lesser known idols.

To catch Zico and other idol and underground rappers, fans can tune in to Show Me the Money 4 every Saturday at 11PM on Mnet.