The Chinese version of the popular Korean show "I Am The Singer" is launching lesser known Korean singers to popularity in China.
Hwang Chi Yeol and Jeong Soon Won (The One) made history in China on Hunan TV's "I Am A Singer," as Korean singers who were relatively unknown in China before appearing on the show. On Jan. 15, Hwang became the first Korean to rank in the number two spot on "I Am A Singer," following The One placing in third overall during the previous season.
Despite both men providing their voices on soundtracks for many popular dramas, neither has seen much success overseas.
"Popular Korean stars from variety shows, TV dramas or movies imported into China are top of the list in China, but those with no such local popularity have to start from rock bottom," said a Korean music label company CEO, reported the Korea Times.
"Hwang and Jeong, who broke into the Chinese showbiz industry with their appearances on Hunan TV, have done something quite amazing."
Hwang recently appeared on a Chinese talk show and became the model for the Chinese online store YGQQ, while The One will release an album in China in March.
The One debuted as a singer in 1997 and has released numerous singles since then. He collaborated with Girls' Generation's Taeyeon on "Like A Star" in 2010, and has had songs featured in dramas like "That Winter, The Wind Blows. He won the second season of Korea's "I Am A Singer."
Hwang Chi Yeol debuted in 2007, and has released numerous songs over the years and appeared on multiple Korean variety shows. In 2015, an appearance on Mnet's "I Can See Your Voice" led to a surge in popularity for the singer, who previously made much of his income acting as a vocal coach for members of INFINITE and Lovelyz.
Last month, veteran K-pop singer and former S.E.S member Bada appeared on the Hunan TV music program and her performance was highly praised by the panel of judges.
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Tamar Herman is a multi-media journalist and the co-founder of KultScene. She is a freelance writer and copy editor, and has written for MTV Iggy, Noisey, and Paste Magazine.
