'96-Year-Old Oldest MC' Song Hae Challenges Guinness World Record

Song Hae/Photo by KBS

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] KBS is pushing for broadcaster Song Hae's inclusion in the Guinness World Records.

On the 25th, KBS announced, "We have confirmed that Song Hae, the oldest MC of the longest-running TV music program 'National Singing Contest,' holds the highest record not only in Korea but worldwide."

The Guinness World Records category being pursued is 'Oldest TV music talent show host.' After a preliminary review by the association, the application has been confirmed. Currently, related materials are being collected according to the judging guidelines provided by the Guinness Association in the UK.

Born in 1927, Song Hae debuted in 1955 through the Changgong Opera Troupe and has been hosting 'National Singing Contest' since 1988, leading the program for 34 years.

KBS expressed, "If Song Hae, the oldest host in Korea, is registered in the Guinness World Records, it will be recognized as an achievement that widely promotes the strength of Korean entertainment programs to broadcasters worldwide."

Meanwhile, on the 31st, KBS2 will broadcast the Lunar New Year special trot musical 'Thank You Everyone, Song Hae.' The program is a reimagined broadcast based on Song Hae's eventful 96-year life story, with singers Jung Dongwon, Lee Chanwon, Youngtak, and Shinyu portraying Song Hae at different ages.

Additionally, stars who have shone on 'National Singing Contest,' such as Song Sohee, Park Seojin, Kim Taeyeon, and Hong Jamun, will also take the stage.