TV
MBN's 'Legend of the Unknown' Set to Shake Up the Trot Scene with Unpredictable Battles
Premiering on the 25th, 'Legend of the Unknown' will feature performances from unknown challengers ranked from the bottom of the 'Rank Tower', specifically from the 1st to the 3rd floors. The show promises unpredictable outcomes from the very first episode, with a bold rule where unknowns face unknowns and the famous face the famous.
The 'Unknown Tier' includes a diverse range of talented individuals, from a top-tier opera singer to a 14-year veteran who has debuted four times, and even a contestant with the unique background of being JYP's first trot trainee. These previously unrecognized talents, boasting striking visuals and compelling stories, are set to deliver unprecedented performances.
According to the production team, the 'true unknowns' on the 1st floor are emerging as strong dark horses, receiving unanimous praise. Despite having no prior broadcast experience, they captivate the studio with raw emotion and urgency, prompting judges to exclaim, "This is a true gem." The extraordinary performances of the 1st-floor contestants are a major highlight to watch.
The strength of the 2nd and 3rd-floor unknowns is equally impressive. One 20-something contestant stunned the audience with a deep 'trot flavor', prompting legendary singer Nam Jin to marvel, "Is this really your age?" and 'Trot God' Kang Moon-kyung to leap up and shout, "Brother!" Their mature emotions and seasoned techniques are expected to electrify both the studio and home viewers.
The first episode will also unveil 'cheat character' contestants who boast center-level visuals and talent. From a contestant reminiscent of a young Won Bin to those with a princely aura and actor-like looks, their perfect combination of skill and appearance led to reactions like, "Is this 'Legend of the Unknown' or 'Legend of the Handsome'?" A fan club for a 'true unknown' contestant has already formed, heating up the audition excitement.
The stories behind the unknown contestants' performances are equally compelling. Reflecting judge Kim Jin-ryong's philosophy that "desperation is necessary," the show will reveal tales of a singer who has debuted four times and auditioned over 20 times without success, an office worker who quit his job to pursue his dream, and a family man who secretly decided to compete.
The unprecedented twist performances from each tier of unknown contestants have drawn high praise from the judges, who commented, "They seem poised for great growth," and "It's a fine dining experience from start to finish." Competing contestants also expressed amazement, calling them "complete cheat characters."
With recognition and experience merely serving as starting points, the show's structure allows for all rankings to be overturned with a single performance. The judges anticipate a significant impact from potential rank ascensions, stating, "If someone goes from the 1st floor to the top, it'll be huge." As 'Legend of the Unknown' premieres, all eyes are on whether it will birth a new legend in the trot world.
'Legend of the Unknown - The Rank War of Trot Men' premieres on the 25th at 9:40 PM.
Ryu Yeji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr
