On the January 13th broadcast of TV CHOSUN's 'Golden Friday', a special Seollal event titled 'Korea-Japan Death Match' will take place. The highly anticipated showdown features '23-year veteran trot singer' Kim Yong-bin and '32-year veteran singer' Utakokoro Rie, raising expectations.
Utakokoro Rie is considered one of the strongest opponents among Team Japan members. Known for her explosive performances, her stage videos have surpassed 10 million views, showcasing her massive fandom in Japan. Kim Yong-bin, recalling a past performance with her, described her voice as 'like a nightingale', showing both respect and a subtle rivalry.
Kim Yong-bin boldly declares to 'defeat' the Team Japan members. He chooses to perform Na Hoon-a's 'Dangshinah', delivering a powerful and emotional performance with his 23 years of experience. Despite the challenge of performing in Korean, Team Japan members praised his performance, saying, 'It was beautiful from the first note' and 'The poignant emotion made us feel immersed in the song'.
Utakokoro Rie surprises everyone by announcing she will perform Choi Jin-hee's 'Heavenly Reunion' in Korean. Despite the challenge of mastering Korean pronunciation and emotion, she confidently reveals she has been studying Korean diligently for this performance. Team Korea leader Kim Yeon-ja applauds her effort, saying, 'It must have taken ten times the effort for a Japanese person to sing this in Korean'.
Kim Yong-bin and Utakokoro Rie, with a combined 55 years of stage experience, engage in a thrilling death match. Anticipation builds for the impact of this showdown between two seasoned veterans.
Meanwhile, TV CHOSUN's 'Golden Friday' Seollal special 'Korea-Japan Death Match' airs tonight (January 13th) at 10 PM.
By Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr