[Lim Young-woong Syndrome] Overflowing Humanity... As 'Nation's Son, Boyfriend, and Older Brother'

Strong Vocal Ability for Comfortable Singing
Sincere Attitude as the Background for Long-Lasting Career... Increased Favorability through Filial Piety and Donations
Enhancing Familiarity with Fans via SNS 'Namchinjjal'

Lim Young-woong. Photo by Mulgogi Music

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] "He sings any song comfortably and without burden."

This is the common first impression mentioned by audiences who have seen Lim Young-woong's performances. He is well known for singing very comfortably. Whether hitting high notes or performing songs with emphasized low tones, he expresses the emotions of the song with a stable tone, without straining or forcing his voice.

The show ‘Mr. Trot’ in 2020, which brought Lim Young-woong into the spotlight, coincidentally overlapped with the outbreak of COVID-19 from its first broadcast. Given that the trot industry mainly relies on concerts and events as its stage, this posed a potential obstacle. However, Lim Young-woong expanded his connection with fans through various broadcasting activities and communication via YouTube.

A word that cannot be left out when talking about Lim Young-woong is ‘comfort.’ Even those who did not know him become captivated by his unique singing style that sounds like softly murmuring. His emotionally compelling vocal power moves people’s hearts and comes as a comfort. It is someone’s consolation for the difficult past years. Although generations, genders, and stories differ, everyone has tough times. Lim Young-woong’s songs were a refreshing comfort for those going through such times.

His casual fashion and appearance, represented by the so-called ‘boyfriend look’ and ‘boyfriend photos,’ are also among the key charms for fans. On trot stages where exaggerated and flashy costumes dominate, he created his own color with simple and calm fashion. Additionally, the everyday moments he shares on social media (SNS) show a relaxed image like any other 20-something youth, increasing intimacy with fans.

Moreover, his consistent good deeds and donation activities, along with the story of growing up raised by his mother after losing his father in childhood, add to Lim Young-woong’s human charm.

His heartfelt filial piety expressed on the first stage of Mr. Trot, saying "I want to be a hero for one woman," is a unique depth of charm and a reason why fans sometimes think of him like their own child.

Lim Young-woong continues to break the fixed stereotypes of trot singers by challenging various genres. His background of majoring in practical music at university and dreaming of becoming a ballad singer laid the foundation for his comfortable yet emotionally compelling voice. Furthermore, his taste, which broadly covers pop and soul genres, demonstrates the extensibility of his style.

The reason he has maintained his ‘prime’ since the Mr. Trot craze in 2020 largely lies in his humble attitude that never wavers regardless of the circumstances. "I always think that I am receiving much more love than what I currently have."

The message Lim Young-woong conveyed on broadcasts reflects his concerns and challenges. His constant effort to pursue newness rather than settling for the present is the force that connects today’s Lim Young-woong to tomorrow’s Lim Young-woong.