G-Dragon Returns to the Year-End Stage After 8 Years, Sparking Mixed Reactions

G-Dragon made a striking return to the year-end stage after eight years during the SBS ‘2024 가요대전’ held at Incheon Inspire Arena on December 25. The event was hosted by IVE's An Yujin, NCT's Doyoung, and TXT's Yeonjun, featuring a total of 29 artists showcasing various performances. G-Dragon's appearance was highly anticipated, marking his first performance at the awards since Big Bang's participation in 2016, and his second year-end festival appearance following the ‘2024 MAMA Awards’ in Osaka last month.

Before G-Dragon took the stage, MC Yeonjun expressed his admiration, stating, "I grew up listening to his songs," while Doyoung introduced him as a "living legend" who would undoubtedly captivate the audience. Amidst enthusiastic cheers, G-Dragon performed passionately, delivering his new song ‘POWER’ along with hits like ‘맨정신’ (Without a Sound) and ‘삐딱하게’ (Crooked).

Despite his impressive finale, reactions to his live performance were polarized. Viewers noted that his live vocals seemed unstable, with some pointing out issues such as a raspy singing style and off-pitch ad-libs. Online comments reflected disappointment, with fans expressing concerns about his vocal condition and criticizing what they perceived as selective live singing. However, some audience members defended him, suggesting that sound issues may have affected the broadcast and that the live experience was better than what was aired.

In a light-hearted moment, G-Dragon was voted as the top idol fans would want as their 'Santa Claus,' to which he humorously responded, "I thought I was the '최옛돌' (oldest idol). I still feel like an idol. Thank you, everyone!"