[Im Young-woong Syndrome] From Ballad to Trot... The 'Traitor' Who Raised a Hero

Practical Music Major, Student Dreaming of Becoming a Ballad Singer
Discovered Trot Talent Through Citizen Song Festival Grand Prize
Noticed for Soft Yet Strong Vocal Tone

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] "When I am struggling and lonely, if someone just listens to my story a little, one day I won't suddenly find myself all alone in the middle of time."

From the moment Lim Youngwoong first appeared on TV Chosun’s ‘Mr. Trot,’ he touched the hearts of listeners. He delivered a straightforward rendition of Noh Sa-yeon’s song ‘Baraem’ (Wish), expressing gratitude to his mother who raised him alone without his father. Without excessive emotion or affectation. An emotional connection that cannot be explained by the three letters ‘vocal skill’ spread throughout the venue. Senior singers in the industry such as Noh Sa-yeon, Jin Sung, and Jang Yoon-jung, who were listening, pressed the ‘heart’ button in sympathy. It was the moment when Lim Youngwoong, the symbol of Mr. Trot, engraved his name in the hearts of senior singers in the music industry.

Born on June 16, 1991, Lim Youngwoong was a student majoring in practical music at Kyungbok University, dreaming of becoming a ballad singer. At first, few paid attention to ballad singer Lim Youngwoong. The turning point in his singing career came in 2015 at the Pocheon Citizens’ Song Festival. Lim Youngwoong sang singer Oh Seung-geun’s ‘Nae Naiga Eottaeseo’ (What’s Wrong with My Age) and won the grand prize. This was the moment he discovered his talent for trot music.

In 2016, he won the grand prize again on KBS 1TV’s National Singing Contest, Pocheon episode. Lim Youngwoong then switched from ballad to trot.

Afterwards, Lim Youngwoong appeared on KBS 1TV’s Morning Yard’s ‘Challenge! Dream Stage,’ achieving five consecutive wins. He also appeared on SBS’s Fantastic Duo, Lee Soo-young episode, under the title ‘Hongdae Trot,’ gaining attention for his soft yet strong vocal tone.

Based on the buzz from these broadcasts, he formed a connection with his current agency, Mulgochi Music. In 2016, Lim Youngwoong debuted as a trot singer by releasing the songs ‘Miwo-yo’ (I Hate You) and ‘Sonagi’ (Shower). However, his debut songs did not gain much attention. He continued his activities by releasing ‘Mwosi Junghendi’ (What’s Important) in 2017 and ‘Gyedan Malgo Elevator’ (Elevator, Not Stairs) in 2018.

Appointed as Pocheon City’s public ambassador in 2019, Lim Youngwoong appeared on TV Chosun’s Mr. Trot in January 2020 as the ‘Heart Stealer Who Came from Pocheon.’ With his emotionally rich voice, he received high praise from the judges and secured a spot among the top finalists with an ‘all heart’ score in the preliminary round.

Lim Youngwoong became a true hero on the final stage. He sang ‘Baesinja’ (Traitor), a song his late father often sang to his mother when he was alive. Receiving overwhelming support from viewers, Lim Youngwoong became the final winner. He showcased his charm through appearances on TV Chosun’s ‘Love Call Center’ and ‘Bongsunga Academy.’

Lim Youngwoong has grown into a singer leading the music industry beyond trot. Recently, after six years since his debut, he released his first full-length album ‘IM HERO’ and is actively meeting fans through a nationwide tour concert.