Im Chang-jung recently appeared on tvN STORY's 'What to Do with the Leftovers'. The singer was cleared of allegations related to stock manipulation by the prosecution in 2023.
On the episode aired on the 6th, Im Chang-jung joined the 'People of Geumchon House' members to revisit a nostalgic location from 30 years ago.
Chef Lee Won-il caught attention with his dishes, including Minari Muk Eunji Pork Backbone Stew and rice cooked in a pot. Im Chang-jung led the atmosphere with his delightful eating show and witty remarks, as the Geumchon House members shared prepared meals and heartwarming conversations.
Notably, Im Chang-jung performed 'A Glass of Soju' a cappella at the request of Chef Lee Won-il, showcasing his timeless emotional depth and proving his status as a legendary balladeer.
In an unreleased video shared on tvN STORY's official YouTube channel on the 1st, behind-the-scenes stories from Im Chang-jung's rookie days were revealed. He shared an anecdote about preparing for a musical audition while staying at Lee Byung-hun's house, expressing that "without Lee Byung-hun, I might not be who I am today." The two met through the drama 'Sunny Days', and Lee Byung-hun, then a youth star, took special care of the then-rookie Im Chang-jung, touching viewers with their story.
Im Chang-jung also recounted how he got a musical audition opportunity through a recommendation from PD Um Ki-baek. Initially failing to impress the musical director, he secured a spot by passionately singing Kim Jong-seo's 'You Without an Answer', which led to a contract with an album producer, drawing attention.
Having wrapped up the 'What to Do with the Leftovers' Geumchon Special Part 3, which started on the 23rd of last month, Im Chang-jung expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "The 'People of Geumchon House' were like family who supported me," adding warmth to the show.
Meanwhile, Im Chang-jung recently released a new song 'Crazy Guy' and is actively promoting it through variety shows, radio, music broadcasts, and global performances in Sydney, LA, Vietnam, and more.
Reporter Kim Se-ah, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr