Mr. Trot 3 Premieres with Star-Studded Contestants

The highly anticipated new season of Mr. Trot (미스터트롯3) premiered on December 19, 2024, showcasing a lineup of exceptional current artists, including Kim Yong-bin and Moses, who are ready to compete. This season introduces several changes, such as the removal of age restrictions, the implementation of blind auditions, and guaranteed opportunities for participants to debut in Japan, sparking curiosity about the potential discovery of a 'second Lim Young-woong'.

A new category, the Old Boys (OB) division, has been established for contestants aged 45 and older, alongside the introduction of creators from the 'Ten Million Club' aiming for 10 million subscribers. The competition features a diverse array of participants, from idol singers in the Hallyu division to seasoned performers with a combined experience of 126 years in the current division, as well as masked contestants.

The judging panel has also seen a shift, with top contestants from Mr. Trot 2, including Ahn Sung-hoon, Park Ji-hyun, Na Sang-do, Jin-wook, and Park Seong-on, joining the ranks of veteran judges like Young-tak, Lee Chan-won, Jang Min-ho, Jung Dong-won, and Kim Hee-jae. New judges include Lee Kyung-kyu, So Yi-hyun, and Siwoo Min, alongside experienced masters such as Kim Yeon-ja, Jin Sung, Jang Yoon-jung, Boom, Joo Young-hoon, and Lee Eun-ji.

Among the contestants is Nam Seung-min, who is making a comeback after four years, and the highly competitive Current Division A, which has historically produced winners like Lim Young-woong and Ahn Sung-hoon. This season features current singers who are participating in the Mr. Trot series for the first time.

The first contestant to take the stage was Kim Yong-bin, who, despite his youthful appearance reminiscent of an idol, has been in the industry for 21 years since his debut in 2004. At just 33 years old, he expressed that the pressure of competing had previously held him back, but witnessing the success of other contestants motivated him to join. He performed Tae Jin-ah's 'Aein' and received an overwhelming response, proving that his extensive experience was not in vain.

Next up was Chun-gil, a two-year active artist who transitioned from pop to trot, previously known for his hit song 'Love Is'. He humorously remarked on his limited activity, stating he had mostly been at home. Chun-gil chose to sing Hyun-chul's 'Your Name' and delivered a stunning high note that earned him an 'All Heart' rating in record time, captivating the judges and audience alike.

The show also introduced the Current Division X, where contestants perform behind a blind curtain, keeping their identities hidden until they secure a spot in the finals. The first performer, nicknamed 'Ha Dong-nam-jin', showcased explosive vocal power with Tae Jin-ah's 'Gone Love', earning an 'All Heart' rating and concluding the premiere episode with excitement and anticipation for what’s to come.