The 14th episode of TV CHOSUN's 'Golden Friday', aired on March 27, unveiled the winner of the '1st Golden Cup Trophy'. Jin Kim Yong-bin triumphed over Chun-gil after a fierce race, adding another golden trophy to his collection following 'Mr. Trot 3'. The episode recorded a nationwide viewership rating of 4.3% according to Nielsen Korea, with peak ratings reaching 4.6%, making it the top program among daily cable and general programming channels.
Chun-gil was the first to earn the seventh golden star. He chose the classic 'Heavenly Reunion' by 'Golden Star' Choi Jin-hee, captivating the stage with his emotional depth and powerful performance. The atmosphere was so intense that it felt like a final match.
Known as a 'strategist' in the Golden Cup race, Chun-gil selected 'Last Place Club' member Chu Hyuk-jin as his opponent. Chu Hyuk-jin delivered a poignant performance with 'Belated Regret', earning cheers of 'Bravo!' from the audience. The tension was palpable, with some wondering if Chun-gil would regret choosing Chu Hyuk-jin as his opponent.
However, the match ended with an 11-point difference, validating Chun-gil's strategy. Chun-gil scored 97 points, securing victory and completing the conditions for the Golden Cup, making him a strong contender.
All eyes were on the showdown between Kim Yong-bin and Chun-gil, who were tied for first place. Kim Yong-bin faced Jin Jeong Seo-joo, who impressed with a clear and pure voice in 'Woman's Heart', earning praise from Choi Jin-hee as 'a voice like the morning air'.
Kim Yong-bin countered with 'Gone You', showcasing his unique control and deep voice. Choi Jin-hee applauded, saying, 'He sang with such depth and dimension. It felt like seeing all of Kim Yong-bin.' His peers also expressed confidence in his victory, stating, 'It feels like he can achieve seven wins.' Ultimately, Kim Yong-bin defeated Jeong Seo-joo by five points, joining Chun-gil at the seven-star mark.
The results of the Golden Cup race, which had been closely contested for three months, were finally revealed. Kim Yong-bin, with a record of 7 wins and 5 losses, became the first Golden Cup winner. Chun-gil, with 6 wins and 6 losses, narrowly missed out, concluding a nail-biting competition. A year after winning the crown in 'Mr. Trot 3', Kim Yong-bin expressed humble surprise, saying, 'I never expected this,' and humorously added, 'I will sleep with the Golden Cup.'
The episode also featured a performance of 'Goodbye Youth' by the 'Mr. Trot 3' TOP7, leaving a lasting impression. The upcoming April 3 episode of TV CHOSUN's 'Golden Friday' will feature a special 'C'est Si Bon Last Story', promising more heartfelt moments.
Born in 1992, Kim Yong-bin, the winner of TV Chosun's 'Mr. Trot 3', received a prize of 300 million won, with a net amount of approximately 286.8 million won after taxes. He plans to share some of his winnings with his aunt, give gifts to his fellow members, and express gratitude to his fan club 'Sarangbin'.
Reporter Lim Chae-ryeong, Ten Asia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr