MBN’s “Unknown Legend – Trot Men’s Hierarchy War” crowned its first-ever winner during the finale on the 13th. Seong-ri maintained his overwhelming momentum through the final second round “Life’s Masterpiece” mission to be named the “1st Legend.” However, another star of the stage was singer Haru.
Haru stayed in 5th place (777 points) during the first round of the finals. It was a situation that would have left anyone feeling regretful. But instead of giving up, Haru pushed forward. In the second round, he captured the audience and judges with his soft emotion and explosive expression, securing second place. The Top 7 were finalized with Jang Han-byeol in 3rd, Hwang Yun-seong in 4th, Jeong Yeon-ho in 5th, Lee Chang-min in 6th, and Lee Ru-ne in 7th. Park Min-su, Lee Dae-hwan, and Kim Tae-woong finished in 8th to 10th place.
Haru’s journey was a core narrative of the program.
A 22-year-old youth from Cheongju, Haru possesses a handsome appearance (176cm) and a pure yet deep sensibility, fitting his nickname “Trot Little Prince.” Throughout the show, he had a nearly undefeated run. In the semi-finals, he dominated the strong favorite Seong-ri with a score of 941 to 559, securing a direct ticket to the finals. He was praised as a “complete rookie,” showing both leadership and skill during the main ace match and team medley.
In the first final “Hit Song Mission,” Haru delivered a warm resonance singing “Key of Life” composed by Son Tae-jin. He truly showed his value in the second “Life’s Masterpiece” mission. His vocals, soaring from soft lows to high notes in the latter half, earned praise for having “really great chest voice.” While the final victory went to Seong-ri, which is well-deserved, Haru’s second-place finish is not just a disappointment. This is because “Unknown Legend” highlighted his shining growth story.
Haru is already an experienced performer who set records as the youngest and highest-scoring contestant in the “AM Plaza Challenge! Dream Stage” Grand Prix. His story of growing his musical dreams alone after losing his mother at a young age resonated with viewers and led to the birth of a passionate fandom called “Harujongil.” Having properly introduced himself to the public through this program, he has now emerged as a new hope in the trot world.
Seong-ri’s victory was the fruit of persistent patience and skill, embodying the spirit of “falling seven times and standing up eight.” Jang Han-byeol’s 3rd place also proved his endurance and popularity. The singers in the Top 7 are expected to completely shake off the “unknown” label through various opportunities such as TV, concerts, and commercials.
“Unknown Legend” has brought a fresh breeze to the trot market. In particular, the appearance of a rookie like Haru, who possesses both young sensibility and skill, brightens the future of the genre. Although he finished as the runner-up, Haru’s true legend is just beginning. Fans are looking forward to seeing what stages he will bring next, following his determination to “work harder as much as I receive great love.”
