Immortal Songs: Soran Wins the Night with Electrifying Performance Honoring Korean Music Legends
Soran Clinches Victory on ‘Immortal Songs’ Kim Hyun-chul × Yoon Sang × Lee Hyun-woo Episode
The iconic KBS music show Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend once again proved why it remains a staple in Korean weekend entertainment. The recent episode, which spotlighted Korean music legends Kim Hyun-chul, Yoon Sang, and Lee Hyun-woo, broke barriers as multigenerational artists delivered vibrant reinterpretations of timeless classics.
The episode, which aired on June 19 and marked the 702nd installment of the series, clocked an impressive 5.0% nationwide viewership rating, maintaining its unprecedented 115-week streak as the #1 Saturday timeslot program, according to Nielsen Korea.
Soran Lights Up the Stage with “Why Are You Like That”
Pop band Soran stole the show with their electrifying rendition of Kim Hyun-chul’s song “Why Are You Like That.” Lead vocalist Go Young-bae brought infectious energy to the stage, even enticing Kim Hyun-chul to join in the dance. The group’s jovial synergy and impeccable live instrumentation earned boisterous applause from both audience and legends alike. Yoon Sang noted, “Go Young-bae’s vocals have never shone brighter,” while Kim joked, “If Soran wins, I own 30% of that trophy.”
Kei × Ryu Su-jeong Reunite for Haunting Ballad
Former Lovelyz members Kei and Ryu Su-jeong delivered a moving performance of Lee Hyun-woo’s “The Day After Separation.” Their harmonic balance between Kei’s pure tone and Su-jeong’s sultry lower register wowed both the mentors and audience. Yoon Sang, who also produced for Lovelyz, expressed pride, calling it a “deeply touching performance.”
Dragon Pony’s Rock Take on a Classic Shines
Dragon Pony, a rising band making their debut on Immortal Songs, blew everyone away with a psychedelic rock rendition of Hwang Chi-hoon’s “You in My Memories,” originally penned by Yoon Sang. Their haunting guitar riffs and atmospheric presentation earned raves. “This is how you make a rock hit out of a ballad,” Yoon marveled. Kim Hyun-chul added, “They might just be Korea’s next iconic band.”
Global Vibes from An Shin-ae × Jo Jazz
Duet partners An Shin-ae and Jo Jazz transported viewers with their soulful treatment of “Let’s Not Forget,” originally by Jang Pil-soon and Kim Hyun-chul. Their chemistry and rich vocal tone drew comparisons to Grammy-level performances. Kim even remarked, “This felt like watching the Grammy Awards in the 90s.”
Lim Han-byul: Passion Despite the Odds
Lim Han-byul offered a stirring version of Yoon Sang’s “Shade of Parting,” performing with fervor even while reportedly receiving IV treatment backstage. His husky, emotionally raw vocals captured the essence of heartache and longing. Yoon Sang, visibly moved, said the rendition fulfilled his long-held wish to hear the song performed this way.
The camaraderie between the three artist-mentors—Kim Hyun-chul, Yoon Sang, and Lee Hyun-woo—was palpable, adding an emotional depth to the episode. Their 30-year friendship shone through witty banter and nostalgic memories, enhancing the overall viewer experience. Fans flooded social media with praise, calling the episode a “musical masterclass in respect, creativity, and joy.”
Immortal Songs: Singing the Legend airs every Saturday at 6:05 PM KST on KBS2, continuing to highlight the timeless power of Korean music across generations.
