'Immortal Songs' Lee Dae-hyung defeated his close friend Park Yong-taek to claim the title of king among baseball players.
On the 739th episode of 'Immortal Songs' (hereinafter 'Immortal Songs'), which aired on the 10th, the "2026 professional baseball special" showcased the leading figures of professional baseball, who helped open the era of 12 million spectators and become a national sport, delivering sincere performances. The pitchers-turned-performers grabbed microphones and staged intense singing battles, decorating living rooms across the country. As a result, the nationwide viewership rating recorded 5.0%, ranking first in its time slot and proving the strength of Saturday variety shows.
Before the main stage, the LG Twins cheerleader team appeared as a special stage to open the show. Their disciplined and lively movements filled the stage and radiated energy.
Kim Byung-hyun, a three-time contestant on 'Immortal Songs' armed with a determination to win, was named the first performer. Kim Byung-hyun chose Lee Seung-Chul's "Last Concert," singing each note with sincerity as if projecting his longing for victory. In the middle of the performance, a large chorus joined, completing a majestic harmony. Given that Kim Byung-hyun said he wanted the 'Immortal Songs' trophy more than a Major League Baseball championship, his all-out effort left a deep impression.
Jeon Sa-min, who took the baton for the second stage, showcased fresh yet delicate sensibility through Roy Kim's "Let's be well, us." Jeon Sa-min's slightly trembling tone from nervousness instead strengthened the song's poignant emotion. He increased the delivery of the lyrics with a speech-like singing style, drawing listeners into the performance. The clear vocal and Jeon Sa-min's image combined to create a special atmosphere. Jeon Sa-min succeeded in winning one match by receiving more votes than Kim Byung-hyun, causing three-time contestant Kim Byung-hyun to taste a bitter defeat.
Hwang Jae-gyun, who made a shocking transformation into a rocker, chose YB's "I am a butterfly" to signal the end of his 20-year baseball career and the start of a new chapter. In particular, photos of Hwang Jae-gyun running across the field behind the stage and a sincere handwritten letter containing his retirement remarks decorated the backstage, adding meaning. Many baseball fans, including Hwang Jae-gyun's parents, shed tears. Hwang Jae-gyun also couldn't hold back his tears and choked up, leaving a strong afterimage. However, Jeon Sa-min secured a second consecutive win, keeping his place in the winner's seat.
Park Yong-taek took the fourth stage and sang the signature number "The Age of Cathedrals" from the musical Notre-Dame de Paris, a favorite karaoke song of his. With his characteristically attractive, deep voice, Park Yong-taek performed as if he were a musical actor, stunning everyone. Supported by the chorus's grand backup, Park Yong-taek spread his arms and displayed explosive vocal power, prompting applause from the panel of song experts. Park Yong-taek stopped Jeon Sa-min's three-win streak and succeeded in winning one match.
The final performer was Lee Dae-hyung. This set up a "close friends" match between the commentary duo of Park Yong-taek and Lee Dae-hyung. Lee Dae-hyung chose Cho Jang-hyuk's "Addicted Love" and opted for a straight approach relying only on his voice without special stage props or backup. Instead of flashy techniques, he delivered a plain and emotionally powerful performance that left a lingering impression. In particular, overcoming his previous stage that was vulnerable to timing, he succeeded in transforming into an emotional balladeer who sang the pain of parting, moving the hearts of the panel of song experts.
The final winner of part 1 of this "2026 professional baseball special" was Lee Dae-hyung. Lee Dae-hyung earned the honor of being certified by 'Immortal Songs' as the king among baseball players by demonstrating a more developed vocal ability and sensitivity.
This special left a strong impression as baseball stars who once ruled the field sang sincerely on stage. Regardless of victory or defeat, their performances, which sublimated their lives and passion as baseball people into song, became an unforgettable gift for fans awaiting the opening of the professional baseball season. In particular, Hwang Jae-gyun's heartfelt performance, after declaring his retirement and taking off his baseball uniform, delivered great emotion.
'Immortal Songs,' which produces legendary videos you want to watch again each episode, airs every week at 6:05 p.m. on KBS2.
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