On the 28th, 'Legend of the Unknown' released a teaser featuring legends Nam Jin, Jo Hang Jo, and Joo Hyun Mi, who gathered to discuss the program with unfiltered opinions. Nam Jin, with 61 years of experience, Jo Hang Jo with 48 years, and Joo Hyun Mi with 45 years, engaged in a heated debate, each expressing their standards and beliefs without hesitation.
Jo Hang Jo remarked, “The contestants are those who have never had the chance to perform on a big stage.” Joo Hyun Mi responded, “Just like when I used to work as a pharmacist,” highlighting the presence of individuals who have led lives completely different from singing before stepping onto the stage. Jo Hang Jo empathized, saying, “I also spent a long time as an unknown. I understand the sorrow of being unknown better than anyone.” Nam Jin added, “There are many talented individuals who leave the entertainment industry after 2 or 3 years due to a lack of hit songs. I hope many of them appear on 'Legend of the Unknown,'” hinting at the rediscovery of hidden talents who never got their chance.
The strategy meeting also delved into the criteria for judging. Jo Hang Jo emphasized, “The most important thing is the unique color and tone one possesses,” while Joo Hyun Mi pointed out the importance of solid basic skills, saying, “To achieve that, one must have a strong foundation.” Nam Jin added, “If we focus too much on technique, it quickly becomes tiresome. I hope to see contestants with unique singing styles,” revealing the distinct judging criteria of each legend.
Given their clear experiences and standards regarding the 'unknown,' the legends expressed confidence in the program. When Jo Hang Jo asked, “What do you think the ratings will be?” Nam Jin replied, “I think it will surpass 10%,” to which Jo Hang Jo immediately responded, “Then let's aim for 18%,” showing strong expectations even amidst laughter.
Previously, a teaser released on the 21st hinted at the presence of unexpectedly famous contestants and mentioned a groundbreaking winner's privilege, creating a buzz. With the latest teaser revealing the judges' criteria and determination, 'Legend of the Unknown' is poised to lead the 2026 trot audition market as a groundbreaking signal.
Set to premiere on February 25th, 'Legend of the Unknown' is a large-scale trot audition that opens 2026, featuring male contestants of all ages and nationalities competing in a rankless, head-to-head battle to challenge the new hierarchy of trot. With Jang Min Ho and Kim Dae Ho as hosts, legends like Nam Jin, Jo Hang Jo, Joo Hyun Mi, Shin Yoo, Kang Moon Kyung, and Son Tae Jin will serve as judges to uncover the true potential of unknown contestants stepping into the world of legends.
Meanwhile, MBN's 'Legend of the Unknown - The Rank War of Trot Men' will premiere on Wednesday, February 25th, at 9:40 PM.
Ryu Yeji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr