'Our Ballad' Dominates Ratings for 9 Consecutive Weeks, Hosted by Jeon Hyun-moo

Jeon Hyun-moo, a prominent TV host known for appearing in 17 shows this year, continues to lead the ratings with 'Our Ballad,' which has secured the top spot for nine consecutive weeks.

On October 18th, the 9th episode of SBS's music audition show 'Our Ballad' (directed by Jung Ik-seung, Ahn Jung-hyun, Han Ye-seul, and Ko Ji-yeon) achieved a 2049 viewership rating of 2.0%, dominating all genres including entertainment, drama, culture, and news aired on Tuesday. The household rating averaged 5.2%, peaking at 6.1%, maintaining its position as the number one Tuesday entertainment program for nine weeks straight, according to Nielsen Korea's metropolitan area data.

The episode featured the semi-final round, where the top 6 finalists were determined. The theme was 'Tribute Ballad,' with contestants expressing heartfelt emotions through their performances. Hong Seung-min, who received 142 votes, emerged as the current leader.

The semi-finalists included Lee Jun-seok, Min Soo-hyun, Chun Beom-seok, Choi Eun-bin, Lim Ji-sung, Song Ji-woo, Lee Ye-ji, Jeremy, Kim Yoon-yi, Hong Seung-min, Jung Ji-woong, and Lee Ji-hoon. Notably, musician Yoon Sang joined the panel, adding significance to the event. Similar to the first round, 150 panelists voted during the performances, determining the top 6 based on the highest votes. Contestants falling below 6th place were immediately eliminated, with no additional chances for re-entry.

Among the diverse performances, Hong Seung-min's story and performance, dedicated to his lonely 14-year-old self, resonated deeply. Coming from a classical music family, Hong Seung-min realized his passion for ballads in middle school but kept it to himself, knowing the sacrifices his parents made for his musical pursuits.

Hong Seung-min's rendition of Park Jung-hyun's 'Mia' captivated the entire panel. Yoon Sang commented, "The person who would appreciate this performance the most would be your parents," expressing his emotional response. He praised Hong Seung-min as a potential powerhouse ballad singer, encouraging him to broaden his horizons.

Meanwhile, Chun Beom-seok, currently in 2nd place with 135 votes, impressed by performing without his usual piano accompaniment, dedicating Kim Kwang-seok's 'To You' to his mother. Yoon Sang praised his rendition, stating it felt like finding a new owner for the song.

Choi Eun-bin, in 3rd place with 131 votes, chose Lee Seung-chul's 'Last Concert,' expressing gratitude to a supportive friend. Lim Ji-sung, known for rhythmic songs, showcased his ballad skills with 'Don't Leave Me' by Light and Salt, earning 128 votes and securing 4th place.

Min Soo-hyun, singing Jo Yong-pil's 'I Wish It Would Be That Way Now,' holds 5th place with 124 votes, while Lee Jun-seok, performing Travel Sketch's 'The Star Is Falling,' narrowly maintains 6th place with 87 votes. Jeremy, dedicating Lee Hi's 'ONLY' to his grandmother, was eliminated with 74 votes.

The semi-final stage of SBS's 'Our Ballad' continues on October 25th at 9 PM, where the final top 6 will be determined.

Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr