A gathering of respect and love for South Korea's living music legend, Cho Yong-pil, was showcased by his fellow artists.
On the KBS 2TV broadcast of 'Cho Yong-pil, Forever This Moment,' commemorating the 80th anniversary of Korean Liberation, the legendary singer's performance and tribute messages from younger artists were revealed. This special event marked Cho Yong-pil's first solo performance on KBS in 28 years since the 1997 'Big Show.' Following a prequel broadcast on the 3rd, the main event aired on the 6th, with a documentary titled 'Record of the Day' set to air on the 8th, capturing the preparation process and journey of the KBS special project.
Debuting in 1968, Cho Yong-pil has consistently expressed his deep affection for music, stating, "Singing is not just a joy; it is my entire life. I am the song itself." During his 30th debut anniversary in 1998 on 'Lee So-ra's Proposal,' he shared, "I still practice singing. Even after 30 years, I want to improve even a little," showcasing his relentless passion.
Cho Yong-pil remarked, "The voice ages if you don't sing. The only way to keep it strong is through practice. I prepare intensely before going on stage. I know nothing but music," adding, "My dream is to die on stage. If I were to leave this world while singing, I can't imagine anything happier. But realistically, it might not be easy," he said with a smile.
Tribute messages from fellow artists followed. Lee Seung-chul reflected, "Cho Yong-pil is not just a singer; he is a genre. When 'Leopard of Kilimanjaro' was released, it changed the entire flow of the music industry." Insooni expressed her respect, saying, "He shows singers the path of challenge."
Shin Seung-hun stated, "Senior Cho Yong-pil is like a benchmark. He gives me the confidence that I can also stand on stage at his age." IU shared, "I went to his concert with my mom, and just being in that space made me a fan. I think he is someone the whole world can love."
Director Park Chan-wook expressed, "He is my hero. Listening to 'Dragonfly' in my senior year felt like a new era was opening. If I were to make a movie starring Cho Yong-pil, it would capture the history of modern Korean music and the birth of a great artist. I really want to see it."
Park Jin-young admired, "If there were a 20-something singing with a voice like Senior Cho Yong-pil's and releasing such songs today, they would surely become another superstar." Lee Juck mentioned, "Thanks to Senior Cho Yong-pil, I could pursue music without seeing musicality and popularity as opposing concepts."
Lena Park expressed her respect, saying, "He always makes me feel like I need to work harder, a great role model." Kim Eana conveyed her heartfelt fandom, saying, "Cho Yong-pil is 'oppa.' The word 'oppa' comes out when you want to revere someone." Lee Seung-chul added, "I hope this isn't the end of his performances. I wish to see him healthy and on stage for a long time," showing deep respect and affection.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr