Facebook Posts "I Was So Moved"
Grandmother Kang Yedeok, who participated in KBS's 'National Singing Contest' at the age of 102, has become a hot topic. As the oldest contestant ever to take the stage, her heartfelt singing moved both the audience and netizens to tears.
Nam Heeseok, the host of KBS's 'National Singing Contest,' wrote on his social media service (SNS) Facebook on the 1st, "Kang Yedeok, 102 years old from Hwasun. Thanks to her, many people cried that day. Please stay healthy and definitely come out again for the next Hwasun Singing Contest." He also shared a YouTube link to the video of Kang grandmother's appearance on the National Singing Contest, which surpassed 400,000 views that afternoon.
Grandmother Kang took the stage on the Hwasun County episode of KBS's 'National Singing Contest,' which aired on the 2nd of last month. Born in 1922, she appeared as the oldest contestant at the age of 102.
Nam Heeseok introduced her, saying, "We will welcome someone who will set a record for the National Singing Contest." Grandmother Kang appeared on stage holding a cane, wearing a pink hat and coat. She walked in with her back straight without leaning on the cane. She said, "I got married at 17 and have lived here until I turned 102," adding, "Please forgive me if I don't do well."
Grandmother Kang Ye-deok, who touched hearts by participating in KBS's "National Singing Contest" at the age of 102. [Photo source=YouTube 'KBS Legend K-pop' capture]
When Nam Heeseok said, "Your hearing is good and your speech is clear," Grandmother Kang laughed heartily and said, "I came out once before I die." She insisted on singing standing without a chair. When Nam Heeseok asked about her secret to health, she said, "I only eat doenjang (fermented soybean paste), kimchi, and rice," which brought laughter.
During the broadcast, Grandmother Kang tightly held the microphone with one hand and passionately sang the song "Jjillekkot" (Wild Rose). Nam Heeseok said to the audience, "Are there people tearing up? I am tearing up too," adding, "I was deeply moved." Some audience members wiped their tears and called for an encore. Grandmother Kang continued with encore songs such as "Cheonyeo Baetsagong" (Maiden Boatman) and "Mokpo's Tears."
Nam Heeseok turned around and wiped his tears. After Grandmother Kang finished singing, the judges bowed deeply, wishing her longevity and health. When Nam Heeseok asked her to come again, she smiled and said, "If I don't die, I'll come again."
Grandmother Kang's appearance on the National Singing Contest also moved netizens. The Dogok Parent Care Welfare Center, which takes care of her, commented on YouTube, "She is always a role model to those around her and a wonderful elder full of love and consideration. We will take good care of her. Thank you."
Netizens also left comments expressing their emotions: "Grandmother, please stay healthy and you are so graceful. Your singing is flawless and your memory is amazing. Please stay healthy," "It reminded me of my mother, and I watched while crying and clapping," "My mother also loved singing, and I miss her so much in heaven," and other similar responses.
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