Huh Gak Triumphs in 'The Best' with First Victory Trophy

Huh Gak, who married Lee Soo-yeon in 2013, finally clinched his first victory trophy on the show 'The Best' with a performance that was nothing short of a life-or-death battle.

On the 29th, during the third 'Showdown' of MBC's audition program 'The Best', Huh Gak, who had been on a rollercoaster of rankings, delivered a dramatic comeback that thrilled viewers. In a desperate situation, he recalled his initial passion from 16 years ago and confidently reclaimed the throne.

Throughout the competition, Huh Gak was seen as a strong contender and a target for many, yet he had not managed to secure a first-place trophy. In a previous ranking round, he shockingly fell to 8th place, unable to even perform in the showdown, watching his peers from the audience. He admitted, "I was too complacent. Today, I put everything on the line as if I were auditioning again," with a determined resolve.

In the 'Showdown', Huh Gak chose his long-time rival Lee Ye-ji as his first opponent. Declaring, "I will show a proper competition song," he performed Deulgukhwa's 'That's My World', showcasing his prowess. Amidst the judges' admiration for his 'final-level song choice', he dominated with flawless vocals, securing an easy victory.

The next battle was against Lee Ye-jun, a strong contender who already held a trophy. When Lee Ye-jun unexpectedly chose one of Huh Gak's own songs for the showdown, the atmosphere was electric. Moved by hearing his song in the competition, Huh Gak admitted, "I didn't expect my song to be chosen. It really shook me," heightening the tension.

Facing the unprecedented challenge of surpassing his own song, Huh Gak chose YB's 'Peppermint Candy'. Despite the pressure, he delivered a powerful performance with unwavering high notes and explosive vocal strength. His rock stage was met with applause and comments like "This is the real Huh Gak," and "As expected, Huh Gak is unmatched." Ultimately, Huh Gak defeated Lee Ye-jun and then Baek Cheong-gang, who had advanced to the finals by default, to claim first place.

Finally securing the first-place trophy and a ticket to the 'Final Showdown', Huh Gak kissed the trophy, expressing his overwhelming joy. He shared, "In that fleeting moment, I remembered the feeling of winning first place in an audition 16 years ago. Thanks to 'The Best', I was able to relive that feeling, and I'm truly happy," he said, tearing up.

Following Son Seung-yeon and Lee Ye-jun, Huh Gak is the third to secure a ticket to the 'Final Showdown'. With only one ticket left, the anticipation builds as other singers, pushed to the edge, prepare for the next round where everything is at stake.

'The Best' airs every Sunday at 9:10 PM.

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