The global popera maestro Lim Hyung-joo, with an estimated income of 'at least 50 billion won,' adorned the finale of 'Neighboring Millionaire.'
In the episode aired on the 25th on EBS and E Channel, 'Seo Jang-hoon's Neighboring Millionaire' (abbreviated as 'Neighboring Millionaire'), Lim Hyung-joo's life story, who has 'shaken the world beyond Korea,' unfolded against the backdrop of his special '400-pyeong popera house.'
Lim Hyung-joo, the pioneer of popera in Korea, gained national attention and love by singing the national anthem at the inauguration of the late President Roh Moo-hyun at the age of 17, which is the 'youngest in history.' He made numerous records, including signing a contract with one of the four major global record labels, entering Carnegie Hall as the youngest male vocalist in 2003, and surpassing 100 million won per show in performance fees, making him the second in Korea after Jo Sumi that same year. He boasts an impressive career recognized not only by Korea's presidents but also by foreign leaders and the Pope, having received the Obama Presidential Award in 2015, the Trump Presidential Volunteer Award in 2019, and a special audience with Pope Francis in 2023.
Lim Hyung-joo's appearance on 'Neighboring Millionaire' marked his return to terrestrial broadcasting after 15 years and vividly portrayed the life and daily life of the human Lim Hyung-joo, which had been shrouded in mystery, eliciting a strong response. Debuting at 12, Lim Hyung-joo, now in his 27th year, stated, 'I had to learn not to make mistakes among adults at an age when I was supposed to make mistakes,' calmly confessing his pain. He also shared, 'From the age of 18 or 19, I have been taking anxiety medication. But I'm not ashamed at all,' embracing even the shadows behind his glory, touching the hearts of viewers. Speaking to his younger self, he said, 'There will be thousands of moments when you will want to cry. If you are afraid of that, run away right now,' shedding tears and hinting at how many tears he must have swallowed over the years.
According to estimates revealed through 'Neighboring Millionaire,' Lim Hyung-joo's income is estimated to be at least 50 billion won. However, Lim Hyung-joo noted, 'I have donated more than half of the money I have earned so far,' surprising many. In fact, he has been continuously engaged in various social contribution activities, including both material and talent donations. Regarding this, Lim Hyung-joo remarked, 'If an event costing 30 million won coincided with a no-guarantee talent donation event for pediatric cancer patients, I would definitely choose the latter,' further adding to the emotional depth. At 39, Lim Hyung-joo expressed, 'I am absolutely not against marriage. I have only failed in love. I am very aware that I am a somewhat difficult person in many ways, so I lack confidence in marriage,' candidly sharing his feelings about dating and marriage.
Meanwhile, during this broadcast, Seo Jang-hoon shed tears while reminiscing about his deceased mother, evoking feelings of sadness. Seo Jang-hoon said while listening to Lim Hyung-joo sing 'Becoming a Thousand Winds,' 'I'm not weak mentally, but after going through something big last year... when I hear songs like this, my emotions well up and it's very sad.' Seo Jang-hoon lost his mother last May after a battle with illness.
'Seo Jang-hoon's Neighboring Millionaire,' which sought to find 'real wealth,' concludes its first season with Lim Hyung-joo's episode. The show offered viewers deep reflections on what true wealth and true success mean by meeting 12 millionaires in our surroundings and exploring their lives and philosophies. Thanks to the overwhelming support from viewers, 'Neighboring Millionaire' has confirmed production for its second season and is officially preparing for it. This autumn, much anticipation is building for 'Neighboring Millionaire' Season 2, which promises to bring more delightful and heartwarming stories to viewers.
[Photo] Provided by EBS, E Channel.
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