Mnet's 'M Countdown' Bids Farewell to Longtime Host Sung Han-bin

'Did You Know?' Reporter Lee So-jung from TenAsia captures intriguing issues in the broadcasting world to stimulate the public's dopamine.

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Sung Han-bin, known as 'Mnet's Son' and the leader of ZEROBASEONE, is set to step down from his role as the host of 'M Countdown' after two years. The news, delivered just two days before his final broadcast, has left fans feeling disappointed. Sung Han-bin has been praised for his stable hosting skills, making the sudden announcement even more surprising.

Having served as the MC of 'M Countdown' since September 2023, Sung Han-bin will host his final show on the 4th. His co-host, BOYNEXTDOOR's Myung Jae-hyun, will also be stepping down, signaling a complete change in the show's hosting lineup.

The program's producers stated, "With this broadcast, the hosting duties of both individuals will conclude," adding, "A new MC has not been decided yet, and special guest MCs will fill in temporarily." They also clarified that discussions about the departure had been ongoing for some time, and it was not a sudden decision. However, they refrained from providing specific reasons or background.

The timing of the announcement has added to the confusion. ZEROBASEONE made a comeback with their first full album on the 1st, and the news of Sung Han-bin's departure broke on the 2nd. Considering 'M Countdown' airs every Thursday, this announcement came just two days before ZEROBASEONE's comeback stage. Fans, who have seen Sung Han-bin as a reliable host for two years, are understandably disappointed.

Some fans find the timing curious, especially with 'Boys 2 Planet' nearing its end and ZEROBASEONE's contract expiration approaching. This has led to speculation that the change might be to introduce new debut members as MCs. The broadcasting industry notes that the lack of clear reasons has fueled unnecessary interpretations.

Beyond 'M Countdown,' Sung Han-bin has been a prominent host for various CJ ENM events, including 'World of Street Woman Fighter (WSWF)' and KCON. His numerous roles on Mnet programs earned him the nickname 'Mnet's Son.' His steady tone, natural hosting style, and respectful attitude towards guest artists have garnered positive reviews.

Myung Jae-hyun joined as an MC in January last year, alongside Sohee, and earned the nickname 'Mungto Cat' among fans for their delightful chemistry and vibrant energy on stage. However, with Sohee's departure in February and now Sung Han-bin and Myung Jae-hyun leaving, the current hosting lineup has come to an end.

The relatively short tenure of 'M Countdown' MCs is noteworthy, with many being replaced in less than a year. Sung Han-bin's two-year stint is considered lengthy, with the longest-serving MC being (G)I-DLE's Miyeon, who hosted for 2 years and 9 months.

The news first broke through an exclusive report by another media outlet, not an official Mnet announcement. Although a special stage is planned for the final broadcast on the 4th, fans were caught off guard by the sudden and insufficiently explained announcement.

Sung Han-bin's departure is seen as more than just a change in MCs; it marks the end of an era for fans who have followed both 'M Countdown' and ZEROBASEONE's activities. The focus now shifts to how the new MC lineup will be structured.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr