Jeong Young-joo from ‘Immortal Songs’ maintained her pride as an actress and lifted the final victory trophy after defeating Rapoem, who had three consecutive wins. A high-quality stage was created with solid vocal skills and deep emotions.
The KBS2 music program ‘Immortal Songs’ aired its second part of the ‘2025 New Year Special 1: Celebrity Special Kim Hae-sook’ on the 18th, featuring Jeong Ji-so, Rapoem, Hwang Ga-ram, Lim Han-byeol, and Jeong Young-joo, who showcased their unique performances on stage.
The first draw was Jeong Ji-so's name. Jeong Ji-so chose Han Myung-sook's ‘The Man in the Yellow Shirt,’ which she had sung with Kim Hae-sook in the drama ‘Suspicious Woman.’ Jeong Ji-so showcased a powerful voice following a gentle introduction that felt like a soft breeze, enhancing the overall flow of the performance. She displayed a level of vocal skill and stage presence that would be impressive even for a singer.
Kim Hae-sook expressed her surprise at Jeong Ji-so's unexpected vocal talent. She said, “While acting together, I listened to Ji-so's singing and was really surprised. But today, I almost fainted. How can she be so good? Let’s talk quietly later,” she marveled.
Following Jeong Ji-so, Rapoem took the stage with Suh Wa-jin's ‘Pacho’ for their second performance. Rapoem delivered a rich three-part harmony that made the absence of Park Gi-hoon, who is on a break, hardly noticeable. They created a mesmerizing atmosphere with their a cappella harmonies. Kim Hae-sook's acting and famous lines appeared on the screen, creating synergy. The line ‘We must live beautifully today’ blended with the stage, providing an emotional impact.
“I really like Rapoem,” Kim Hae-sook shyly smiled, adding, “I was excited to see who would sing ‘Pacho,’ and I listened with my heart racing. They truly moved me,” she expressed her joy. She then added, “I’m sorry, Ji-so,” which brought laughter.
Hwang Ga-ram, who chose ‘Immortal Songs’ as her dream stage, performed Yang Hee-eun's ‘About the Loneliness of Love’ for her third performance. Hwang Ga-ram became the narrator of the song with her uniquely rough and lonely voice. Many were moved to tears by her unadorned performance that fully captured her innate charm. The ups and downs of Hwang Ga-ram's journey were reflected in her vocals, enhancing the song's appeal.
Regarding Hwang Ga-ram's performance, Kim Hae-sook said, “You must have fought a tremendous battle with yourself. That’s why I think you’re standing here, and I felt that in your singing. I really look forward to your future and will support you. I believe many good things will come your way,” she offered her blessings. Rapoem added another win, surpassing Hwang Ga-ram by two votes.
Lim Han-byeol took the fourth baton and dedicated Toy's ‘Still Beautiful’ to Kim Hae-sook. ‘Still Beautiful’ is a song that Kim Hae-sook played on the keyboard in the drama. Lim Han-byeol showcased a continuous high-pitched vocal performance that left the audience in awe. Everyone applauded as he built up his high notes in a stair-step manner. Lim Han-byeol infused the song with romantic emotions, as he dedicated it to ‘Sister Hae-sook.’
Kim Hae-sook smiled at Lim Han-byeol, saying, “I was happy and enchanted while you sang. I found myself wanting to play the piano down here, recalling the happy moments from when I played in the drama. Thank you for singing such a wonderful song that reminded me of those moments.” Rapoem continued their winning streak by defeating Lim Han-byeol once again, becoming the champions of three consecutive wins.
Jeong Young-joo closed the show with her final performance of Im Hee-sook's ‘My One and Only Person is Leaving.’ Jeong Young-joo took the stage filled with respect for Kim Hae-sook. This was a direct confrontation with Rapoem, whom Jeong Young-joo considered a competitor. She infused the song with deep emotions, leveraging her strengths as an actress. Her outstanding vocal skills combined with her acting sensibility maximized the immersion of the performance. The powerful balance of vocals and emotions stood out.
Kim Hae-sook remarked about Jeong Young-joo, “She has such a powerful and wonderful voice that pierces deep into the heart; it gave me chills. I hope she sings more often.” After a fierce competition, Jeong Young-joo claimed the trophy for the second part. She beamed as she embraced the trophy presented directly by Kim Hae-sook.
As this special episode concluded, Kim Hae-sook said, “I still can’t believe I’m here. I’m really happy to welcome the New Year with the songs of my beloved singers and the juniors who love and cherish me. I wish you all good health and only good things this year.”
This special episode was filled with a warm and sincere atmosphere, featuring a lineup of cast members overflowing with unique respect and affection for the main character, Kim Hae-sook. The storytelling from Jeong Ji-so, who is acting alongside Kim Hae-sook, Rapoem, who considers Kim Hae-sook a fan, and Jeong Young-joo, who regards her as a lifelong role model, was rich and deeply moving.
‘Immortal Songs,’ which creates legendary videos that viewers want to revisit every episode, airs every week at 6:05 PM.
[Lee Da-gyeom, Star Today Reporter]
