[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Hyesoo] On the afternoon of the 8th, the stage of masked singers challenging the reigning champion Joo Yoonbal was held on MBC's 'King of Mask Singer.'
The first round began with the performances of Ppogeuli and Cup Ramen. The two chose Fin.K.L's 'Now,' and the judging panel enjoyed the familiar song from the start. Cup Ramen competed with a sweet and delicate voice, while Ppogeuli showcased vocal skills with a slightly mature voice. The stage ended with Cup Ramen winning with 60 votes.
The identity of Ppogeuli, who lost to Cup Ramen, was Momoland's Jane. Jane, who received comments like "Your voice sounds like a French singer," said, "This is the first time I've come out alone somewhere by myself," showing her hands trembling like robot hands. Especially when revealing her identity, Jane sang Sejeong's 'Flower Road' and said, "I didn't know senior Sejeong was on the judging panel when I chose the song," stamping her feet in embarrassment. Sejeong waved her hand warmly, creating a heartwarming moment for Jane.
The second match of the first round was performed by White Butterfly and Tiger Butterfly. Choosing Radi's 'I'm In Love,' White Butterfly and Tiger Butterfly moved hearts with their calm and fantastic harmony. The winner of this stage was Tiger Butterfly with 78 votes.
White Butterfly, who revealed her identity while singing Kim Wan-sun's 'Pierrot Smiles at Us,' was actress Son Ji-hyun, a former member of 4Minute. Wearing a white suit, Son Ji-hyun presented a dazzling dance performance with a song completely different from the challenge song, receiving enthusiastic responses.
The third stage of the first round featured Gangbyeonbuk-ro and Kim Suro competing with Adam Levine's 'Lost Stars.' While Kim Suro showed a stable voice, Gangbyeonbuk-ro aroused the curiosity of the judging panel with unique hand gestures and an attractive, unique tone. Ultimately, Gangbyeonbuk-ro advanced to the next stage with 77 votes.
Kim Suro, who took off his mask while singing Solid's 'Cheonsaengyeonbun,' was announcer-turned-broadcaster Kim Iljoong. Kim Iljoong revealed his identity with an exciting stage, earning admiration from the judging panel who applauded enthusiastically.
The last stage of the first round was handled by Poodle and Pudding. Choosing Sung Jin-woo's 'Don't Give Up,' which dominated the 90s, the two interpreted the masculine original song in their own styles, gaining the panel's approval. With similar skills, the close match ended with Pudding winning 51 to 48.
Poodle, who sang Travel Sketch's 'To an Old Friend' with a clear voice, took off his mask to reveal comedian Yoon Jung-soo's face. While the panel was surprised by Poodle's vocal skills, Yoon Jung-soo humorously took off the poodle doll shoes he was wearing one by one while singing, delivering a comedian's laughter. During the instrumental break, Yoon Jung-soo explained the reason for throwing off his shoes, saying, "My feet hurt so much."
MBC's entertainment program 'King of Mask Singer' airs every Sunday at 6:20 PM.
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