'Immortal Songs' Hits Record Low Ratings Amid Lee Hwi-jae's Return

KBS2's 'Immortal Songs', which marked the return of Lee Hwi-jae to broadcasting, recorded its lowest ratings ever.

The 751st episode of 'Immortal Songs', aired on the 11th, featured the first part of the 'Composer Yoon Il-sang Special'. Performers included KISS OF LIFE, Hwang Chi-yeul, La Poem, Dayoung, and Min Woo-hyuk. The episode garnered a 3.8% viewership rating, a 0.9% drop from the previous week and the lowest in the show's 15-year history. The previous lowest rating was 4.1% for the 724th episode aired last year.

The first performance was by KISS OF LIFE, making their debut on 'Immortal Songs'. They transformed Kim Yeon-ja's hit song 'Amor Fati' with their unique style, delivering a musical-like performance that captivated the audience with expressive acting and powerful vocals. TWS's Shin Yoo praised, "It was so exciting, I wanted to join them on stage." Composer Yoon Il-sang expressed his desire to work with them, saying, "I want to create a song for KISS OF LIFE right away."

Next, Hwang Chi-yeul took the stage with Lee Eun-mi's 'I Have a Lover'. His emotive vocals captured the hearts of the judges, with his husky yet powerful voice enhancing the song's poignancy. Im Han-byul praised, "With such a performance, he must really have a lover." Hwang Chi-yeul won the first round against KISS OF LIFE.

La Poem followed with Kim Bum-soo's 'I Miss You'. Their harmonious vocals turned the song into a grand epic, with their powerful voices filling the stage. KISS OF LIFE's Bell commented, "It was like listening to angels. They are number one in our hearts." Hwang Chi-yeul won the second round as well, securing two consecutive victories.

Dayoung then performed Kim Gun-mo's 'A Cuckoo Flies Over the Nest', adding a trendy high-teen vibe to the original's upbeat rhythm. Her solid live performance and energetic dance moves showcased her potential as a next-generation performance queen. Minyoung from BBGIRLS remarked, "It was so hot, especially the dance segment, it felt like I just returned from the U.S." Hwang Chi-yeul defeated Dayoung, achieving three consecutive wins.

Min Woo-hyuk closed the first part with 'As You Live' from the musical 'Seopyeonje'. He shared, "The lyrics 'As you live, you live' have been a source of strength for me. I sing with the hope of supporting your lives." His sincere performance, accompanied by an animation depicting life's hardships, moved the judges to tears. Takenaka Yudai praised, "I want to be an adult like Min Woo-hyuk." Min Woo-hyuk prevented Hwang Chi-yeul's sweep, winning the final round.

Meanwhile, Lee Hwi-jae returned to broadcasting on 'Immortal Songs' after a four-year hiatus, following controversies over inappropriate remarks and family-related issues. He reflected, "I know where I fell short and made mistakes. It was a time to reflect on my 30-year career. I realized I can only do my best with the opportunities I have now." He emotionally shared, "Coincidentally, I received the casting call on my mother's memorial day. I feel like she helped me. I didn't appreciate things when I was busy. Coming to Yeouido and meeting colleagues gives me energy."

Lee Hwi-jae made a surprise return as an MC, expressing, "The writers said the recording would be long, but I wouldn't mind if it lasted until the day after tomorrow. It's been so long since I laughed like this. I'm so happy."

However, the viewer board was divided, with some opposing his return and others defending him, arguing that he hadn't committed a crime.

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