Rookie Haru Leads Team to Victory in 'Legend of the Unknown' with Stellar Performance

On the October 18th episode of MBN's 'Legend of the Unknown - Trot Men's Ranking Battle,' Haru, leader of the 'Unknown Team,' achieved an overwhelming victory against the 'Famous Team' led by Hwang Yoon-sung, scoring 406 points.

The episode featured the first round of the 'Unknown vs. Famous Team Deathmatch.' Haru had previously captivated both the top professional panel and viewers with a heartfelt rendition of 'Mother's Season,' securing a spot in the 'Unknown Selection' TOP3. Haru's journey as a trot singer, inspired by his late mother's words to 'find happiness,' has drawn significant attention.

In this first round, only 49 contestants advanced, divided into 'Unknown' and 'Famous' teams for the 'Team Deathmatch.' The TOP5 from each team became leaders, selecting their team members, forming a total of 10 teams. The competition consisted of a 'Team Battle' in the first round and a 'Top Leader Battle' in the second round.

The most talked-about match was between Haru's 'Unknown Team' and Hwang Yoon-sung's 'Famous Team.' Haru, with youthful vigor, challenged Hwang's team, choosing the 'Sweet Man' genre. Alongside team members Jung Yoon-young, Kwak Young-kwang, Hwang Min-woo, and Lee Do-jin, they embraced the concept of 'Fresh 20s Trot Idols.'

Haru's team selected Kang Jin's 'Younger Man.' Despite initial stiffness during practice, young leader Haru quickly improved the team's performance. In an interview, Haru expressed, 'As a rookie myself, I understand the feeling of inadequacy,' showcasing genuine leadership.

On stage, Haru's team donned navy school-style tops and jeans, emphasizing their refreshing charm. The performance began with a cute act, anchored by Haru's solid bass and sweet voice, and escalated with a hip dance break that captivated the audience. The bold use of belts and barbed wire props exuded masculinity and sexiness, leaving a strong impression.

At the climax, Haru playfully addressed top professional Joo Hyun-mi with, 'Noona, I only see you,' engaging the audience and concluding the performance amidst enthusiastic reactions. The audience, as well as opposing and other teams, praised the performance.

The top professional panel's feedback was equally enthusiastic. Joo Hyun-mi praised the choreography and storytelling, while Shin Yoo admired the youthful passion and determination. Im Han-byeol commented, 'It felt like watching a trot idol performance. My heart leans towards Haru's team.'

The results were decisive. Against Hwang Yoon-sung's team, who performed Na Hoon-a's 'Like Adam and Eve,' Haru's team scored 260 points from the top professional panel, 109 points from the national panel, totaling 369 points. With an additional 10% bonus, they achieved a final score of 406 points, securing victory.

Notably, 13 top professionals, including Son Tae-jin, Joo Hyun-mi, Kim Kwang-kyu, Kim Jin-ryong, Shin Yoo, Jo Hang-jo, Im Han-byeol, Nam Jin, Yang Se-hyung, Ivy, Hong Hyun-hee, Hari-mu, and Jo Hye-ryun, supported Haru's team, affirming their complete victory.

Attention now turns to the next round. The upcoming episode will feature the second round 'Top Leader Battle,' with a highly anticipated showdown between leaders Haru and Hwang Yoon-sung.

By Yeji Ryu, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr

Related Topics: Hwang Yoon-sung, Legend of the Unknown, MBN, Trot, Haru