MBN's 'Legend of the Unknown' Debuts with Record-Breaking Ratings

The highly anticipated MBN audition program 'Legend of the Unknown - The Rank War of Trot Men' (hereafter referred to as 'Legend of the Unknown'), hosted by Kim Dae-ho and Jang Min-ho, has finally premiered.

Airing for the first time on the 25th, 'Legend of the Unknown' achieved a nationwide viewership rating of 6.1%, with peak ratings reaching 7.213%. This not only made it the top-rated program in its time slot but also the highest-rated entertainment show on Wednesday. In comparison, Yoo Jae-suk's 'You Quiz on the Block' on tvN recorded ratings in the 4% range.

The episode unveiled the stages of unknown contestants located from the first to the third floors of the rank tower. Newcomers with both visual appeal and talent delivered legendary performances right from the start.

The opening featured a grand reveal of the rank tower, the symbol of 'Legend of the Unknown', as the LED screen dramatically opened. 99 contestants took their places from the first to the fifth floor based on their recognition, each taking a turn on the runway. The rules were also disclosed: contestants who received unanimous approval from all 13 top pros (judges) would advance directly to the next round, those with 6 to 12 approvals would be provisionally accepted, and those with 5 or fewer would be eliminated.

The tension among contestants was palpable, but it was short-lived as the grand prize of 100 million won, along with opportunities for movie production, program launching, a second house in Jeju Island, a national tour concert, a cruise fan meeting, and music release, was announced. This unprecedented 'life-changing' prize package filled the studio with excitement and cheers.

The performances of the first-floor contestants, who had no prior broadcasting experience, began in earnest. Lee Woo-jung, the first to take the stage, captivated everyone with his flower-like beauty reminiscent of actors Won Bin and Go Soo, combined with a muscular physique. His performance, which included a gun prop, was stable and live, earning him 12 top buttons and a spot as a provisional qualifier.

The stage continued with first-floor participants who possessed both visual appeal and talent. Kim Sung-min, who drew attention for his resemblance to soccer player Son Heung-min, impressed with his remarkable singing ability, earning praise from top pros Nam Jin and Lim Han-byul, and became the first contestant to receive unanimous approval.

Lee Dae-hwan, who works as a fire safety inspector while pursuing his dream of becoming a trot singer, received cheers for his handsome actor-like appearance. His mature vocal performance on stage earned him a fan club and unanimous approval. Other contestants reacted with comments like "This is a professional," and "A game-changer has appeared."

Not only did visually striking contestants make an impact, but those with a desperate desire to sing also captured attention. Han Garak, who secretly participated in the competition against his family's wishes, moved everyone with his heartfelt performance, earning unanimous approval. Top pro Lim Han-byul praised his stage as "a fine dining experience with nothing to discard."

Another contestant, Han Nul, surprised everyone by revealing he quit his job to focus on 'Legend of the Unknown'. His dedication to trot music was evident in his performance, earning him unanimous approval. Joo Hyun-mi commented, "If this is his skill after only six months, he has potential. I support his decision to quit."

Second-floor contestants, who have made a name for themselves at local events and small stages, proved why they are different from first-floor contestants. Marco, a former 'JYP's first trot singer trainee' and recognized by Son Tae-jin as having followed the elite course in vocal music, received 11 and 12 top buttons, respectively, securing provisional qualification. Lee Hee-doo left a strong impression with his deep vocals and control, earning praise as "brother" from Kang Moon-kyung and unanimous approval.

The performances of third-floor contestants, who have been verified through broadcasts and music festivals, were distinctly different. Kim Tae-woong, who gained fame as a trot prodigy, moved the audience to tears with a heartfelt performance dedicated to his mother, earning unanimous approval. Lee Rune also demonstrated the difference of a professional with a relaxed yet captivating stage, even causing Nam Jin to forget to press the button, resulting in 12 top buttons.

Ji Young-il, a '14-year unknown singer', received unanimous approval with his unwavering live performance and stage presence after four debuts and over 20 audition attempts. His emotional confession, "I've never been told I'm good," drew sincere support from the top pros. Haru, with a 'prince' visual and a five-time winner on 'Morning Yard', received a standing ovation for his performance dedicated to his late mother, earning unanimous approval and praise as "a talent to watch."

By Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr