From Oh Young-sil to Lim Sung-min: KBS Announcer's Bold Transformation After Leaving the Network

On the latest episode of KBS2's 'Immortal Songs' (불후의 명곡), Choi Seung-don celebrated a long-awaited victory after four attempts, finally clinching the championship. Having previously faced a shocking defeat to Jo Woo-jong, Choi's triumph marked the realization of his long-held dream as he embraced the winner's trophy.

According to Nielsen Korea, episode 682 of 'Immortal Songs' recorded a nationwide rating of 7.8% and 7.0% in the metropolitan area, securing the top spot in its time slot. This represents a 1.1% increase from the previous week, continuing a remarkable 95-week streak at number one.

The November 23 broadcast featured a special theme titled 'Announcers Who Left vs. Announcers Who Stayed at Home,' showcasing performances from Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong, Kim Byeong-chan, Kim Jong-hyun, Nam Hyun-jong, Lee Yoon-jung, Lim Sung-min, Kim Bo-min, and Eom Ji-in, culminating in Choi Seung-don's performance.

Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong kicked off the show with a lively rendition of Kim Yeon-ja's 'Amor Fati,' captivating the audience with their dynamic stage presence. Oh's narration-style introduction drew attention, and after a heartfelt first verse, Jo joined in for a spirited second verse, energizing the crowd with their infectious enthusiasm. Jo's comedic flair added to the fun, eliciting laughter from the audience.

Next, Kim Byeong-chan took the stage with a heartfelt performance of Baek Ho's 'Young-sil's Farewell.' Although he stumbled with the rhythm early on, the audience's support helped him deliver a complete performance. As an announcer, his impressive lyric delivery captivated viewers, and his warm tone and relaxed stage presence brought smiles to the audience. After finishing, he humorously fumbled in the dark, showcasing his endearing charm.

The first victory went to the duo of Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong, who defeated Kim Byeong-chan.

The third performance featured Kim Jong-hyun, Nam Hyun-jong, and Lee Yoon-jung, who delivered an engaging remix of Yoon Soo-il's 'Apartment' and Rosé and Bruno Mars' 'APT.' Their stylish outfits and the catchy chorus of 'APT.' added a unique twist to the performance, which was enhanced by Lee Yoon-jung's solo dance and the vocal synergy between Kim Jong-hyun and Nam Hyun-jong.

However, the judges favored Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong again, granting them a second victory.

Lim Sung-min took the stage next, performing Lee Eun-ha's 'Like the Way You Sent Me Off with a Smile.' Having long dreamed of being a singer, Lim expressed that 'Immortal Songs' helped him achieve that dream, moving the audience. He shared that he has been studying vocal music recently, showcasing his refined skills with stable vocalization and powerful resonance. His performance not only highlighted his vocal prowess but also conveyed deep emotions, impressing everyone. Lee Chan-won praised him, stating, "He is the most vocally perfect among announcers," as Lim delivered a stunning performance.

With his impressive singing, Lim Sung-min ended Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong's three-win streak, raising his hands in victory.

The fifth performance featured Kim Bo-min and Eom Ji-in, who faced off against Lim Sung-min. They performed Kim Wan-sun's 'The Pierrot Doesn't Smile at Us,' expressing confidence in their extensive practice of the 'Rabbit Dance.' Their passionate performance and solid vocal skills resulted in a high-quality stage, captivating the audience with their well-rehearsed dance and bringing smiles to the judges.

Yet again, Lim Sung-min's emotional delivery triumphed, as he defeated Kim Bo-min and Eom Ji-in, continuing his winning streak.

The finale was graced by Choi Seung-don, who faced off against his former classmate and rival, Lim Sung-min, in his fourth attempt on 'Immortal Songs.' Choi performed Jason Mraz's 'I'm Yours' alongside his university choir, blending his voice beautifully with the harmonies created by his friends, delivering a deeply moving performance. The camaraderie on stage added an extra layer of warmth to the show.

Ultimately, Choi Seung-don emerged victorious, achieving his long-awaited goal after four appearances and defeating his rival Lim Sung-min to claim the winner's trophy. As the lights came on, he closed his eyes in disbelief, and when Lim presented him with the trophy, he beamed with joy.

This special episode, featuring the lively banter and competitive spirit of KBS announcers and those who have declared their independence, provided endless entertainment and laughter. The chemistry among the announcers was noted to be particularly vibrant, creating a dopamine-inducing atmosphere.

Following the broadcast of episode 682, social media and online communities buzzed with reactions, with viewers praising the performances: "Oh Young-sil and Jo Woo-jong were the ultimate in fun! My shoulders were moving along with the music," "Kim Byeong-chan's karaoke-style editing was hilarious. Everyone was in sync, and it cracked me up," "The three announcers singing 'Apartment' were adorable," "Eom Ji-in and Kim Bo-min's dance was captivating," "Lim Sung-min's singing was truly touching," and "Choi Seung-don, with his gentle yet powerful voice, was the best!"