'Original National MC' Song Hae Passes Away, 'National Singing Contest' Team "Assessing the Situation"

Broadcaster Song Hae. [Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Jung-wan] Broadcaster Song Hae, the original national MC of 'National Singing Contest,' passed away on the 8th. KBS reportedly refrained from commenting on the successor host, calling it "premature."

According to iMBC Entertainment on the same day, a KBS official stated, "'National Singing Contest' production staff are also looking into the specific situation. The production team's position will be organized after understanding the circumstances."

Earlier, Song Hae was hospitalized for health issues in January and last month, and in March, he was diagnosed with COVID-19. After recovering from COVID-19, he participated again in the recording of 'National Singing Contest,' but on the 16th of last month, he expressed his intention to step down, saying, "It might be difficult to continue hosting 'National Singing Contest' any longer." In May, he was hospitalized again due to health problems, causing concern among fans.

Meanwhile, in April, Song Hae was listed in the Guinness World Records as the "Oldest TV music talent show host." Regarding this, Song Hae shared his thoughts, saying, "Thanks to the viewers across South Korea who have cherished National Singing Contest for many years."

Born in 1927 in Jaeryeong, Hwanghae Province, Song Hae studied vocal music at Haeju Arts School. He debuted as a singer in 1955 through the Changgong Opera Troupe and has been hosting 'National Singing Contest' for 34 years since 1988, traveling nationwide and meeting the public.