TV Shows

K-Pop Legend Daesung to Host ‘King of Active Singers Japan’

Seventeen years into a stellar career straddling both South Korea and Japan, BIGBANG’s Daesung is embarking on another cultural milestone. The K-pop icon has officially been named MC of the Japanese edition of Korea’s top-tier male vocal audition show, King of Active Singers Japan. This major announcement arrives in conjunction with the 60th Anniversary of Normalization of Korea-Japan Diplomatic Relations, emphasizing Daesung’s unique position as a cultural ambassador between the two nations.

The show, a spin-off of Korea’s hit program King of Active Singers, is set to air on Japan’s BS Nittere network. It will feature Japan’s most passionate and prominent J-POP male vocalists in an intense competition that transcends genre and experience. The first episode will be recorded on May 27, marking the official start of the show’s journey.

Daesung shared his excitement: “It’s already been 17 years since I started my cross-cultural career between Korea and Japan. I’m thrilled to be hosting a program where Japan’s top seven male vocalists compete. I plan to bring warm yet entertaining energy to the stage, integrating all the experience I’ve gained over the years.”

Known for his massive success with BIGBANG‘s dome tours, solo concerts, and wide influence in both music industries, Daesung recently wrapped his live tour D’s IS ME and D’s IS ME – Encore across 10 Japanese cities. He’s also gearing up for his next leg of performances with the “Daesung 2025 Asia Tour: D’s Wave in Seoul” and upcoming concerts in Kobe (July 22–23) and Yokohama (August 30–31).

In addition to his musical endeavors, Daesung has proven his versatility as an MC on shows like Hanil Top Ten Show, and as a master judge on both King of Active Singers 1 and 2. His eloquence, wit, and warm demeanor have garnered widespread acclaim, especially in cross-cultural formats like Korea-Japan King of Kings Show.

King of Active Singers Japan is produced by K-audition hitmaker Seo Hye-jin and the rising production powerhouse Crea Squad, known for past successes like Mr. Trot and Hanil Top Ten Show. With a grand prize of 10 million yen and a path leading to collaboration with Korea’s top talents from King of Active Singers 2, this show is set to ignite a new K-audition wave across Japan.

Daesung’s participation not only boosts the show’s profile but also symbolizes ongoing cultural diplomacy between Korea and Japan, providing fans in both countries with a renewed sense of unity through music and entertainment.