Western K-pop fans may be confused by the constant appearances of idol groups on Mnet. What is Mnet, anyway? Mnet – short for Music Network – is essentially the South Korean version of VH1 and MTV (back when both of those channels were music channels instead of reality TV dumpster fires). Mnet is a subscription TV channel that’s owned by CJ E&M. It is known for consistent programming featuring live studio audiences and live music performances. M Countdown, Superstar K, Comeback War, and Street Dance are just a few of the programs it airs. Mnet officially launched in 1993.