MBN's '2026 Korea-Japan Singing Battle' Ends in Another Thrilling Tie

MBN's '2026 Korea-Japan Singing Battle' delivered another nail-biting episode as the 'Second Round' of the finals ended in a tie, creating an unscripted drama.

The third episode, aired on the 28th, achieved a nationwide viewership rating of 4.7%, peaking at 5.3%.

The episode kicked off with the energetic entrance of the Korea-Japan TOP7, eager for a win after the first round ended in a draw. The second round featured a '1 vs 1 Same Song Mission,' where Korean and Japanese singers performed the same song, with the outcome solely determined by the scores from the Korea-Japan national judging panel.

First up were Korea's '7-time Challenger' Kang Hye-yeon and Japan's Shimokita Hina, who both chose Jewelry's 'Super Star.' Their powerful vocals and dazzling dance moves captivated the stage, earning them praise like "You two should release an album together." However, Shimokita Hina edged out Kang Hye-yeon to take the lead.

The 'Traditional Trot Pillar' Hong Ji-yoon and 'Traditional Enka Goddess' Azuma Aki drew attention with their 'big match' showdown. Determined to avenge her first-round defeat, Hong Ji-yoon and the calm yet competitive Azuma Aki performed Na Hoon-a's 'Why Are You Crying,' showcasing their mastery in traditional singing. Hong Ji-yoon's victory tied the score between Korea and Japan.

Solji, who received the lowest score in the first round, vowed to show her 'Up & Down' performance, teaming up with Natalia D for a fiery dance. Their emotional duet of Hirai Ken's 'Close Your Eyes' was praised as a 'unifying stage for Korea and Japan,' but Solji's impressive ad-libs secured her victory.

Korea's 'Energy Representative' Cha Ji-yeon and Japan's Bon Inoue faced off with Jinju's 'I'm Okay,' captivating the audience with their high notes and intense performance. Despite the explosive energy, Bon Inoue narrowly defeated Cha Ji-yeon by 8 points, bringing the score back to a tie.

Shin Dong-yup announced a 'special showdown' with 'Black Rose' Lin and Utagokoro Rie, who aimed to add a point for their teams. Rie's healing performance of 'Certain Thing' and Lin's emotional rendition of 'Will We Meet Again' moved the audience, with Lin's victory giving Korea a lead.

Lee Soo-yeon and Nagai Manami took on 'Into the New World,' marking their first girl group stage. Despite a microphone mishap, Lee Soo-yeon's professionalism helped secure another win for Korea.

Kim Tae-yeon and Arakawa Karen, both middle schoolers, showcased their friendship and competitive spirit with Kim Soo-hee's 'Lost Love.' Karen, who shared her longing for her father, won, adding a point for Japan.

The 'Korea-Japan Special Selection' featured Cha Ji-yeon and Aki performing again for their teams. Cha Ji-yeon's theatrical performance of 'As Flowers Bloom and Fall' and Aki's emotional 'Don't Cross That River' ended in a tie, with both countries' judging panels scoring equally, leaving Korea and Japan at 5-4.

Finally, Korea's Koo Soo-kyung and Japan's Tae Ri delivered a powerful performance of Jang Yoon-jung's 'Love,' but Koo Soo-kyung's undefeated streak ended with Tae Ri's win, resulting in a 5-5 tie. The second round concluded in a draw, heightening anticipation for the third round.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr