The living legend of the music industry, Cho Yong-pil, will take the stage for a solo KBS concert, marking his first terrestrial broadcast appearance in 28 years, to commemorate the upcoming 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation. KBS announced on the 11th that it will host the "80th Anniversary of Liberation KBS Grand Project – This Moment Forever, Cho Yong-pil" solo concert on September 6th at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul.
Return to Terrestrial Broadcast After 28 Years… KBS's Persistent Efforts
This concert holds deep significance as it marks Cho Yong-pil's first solo terrestrial broadcast stage in 28 years since his appearance on KBS's "Big Show" in 1997. Including other terrestrial broadcasters, it's his first solo concert in 17 years. It's reported that KBS made persistent efforts and persuasions over several years to make this performance by Cho Yong-pil happen. A KBS official expressed anticipation for the concert, stating, "We are meticulously preparing for this concert so that the national singer, Cho Yong-pil, can be with the public on the meaningful occasion of the 80th anniversary of liberation." Cho Yong-pil's side also stated, "As this is an opportunity to connect closely with the public after a long time, we will do our best to present the finest stage."
Cho Yong-pil, The Living History of the Music Industry
Cho Yong-pil is a living legend who has left a significant mark on the history of Korean popular music. He has set numerous records, including being the first in Korea to achieve a single album million-seller ('Cho Yong-pil's 7th album'), the first to surpass 10 million total album sales, and having the most songs by a Korean popular singer included in music textbooks. Since his debut in 1968, he has released timeless masterpieces like 'Return to Busan Port,' 'Woman Outside the Window,' 'The Leopard of Kilimanjaro,' 'Mona Lisa,' and 'Bounce,' earning him the moniker 'King of Gayo (Korean pop).' His music has transcended genres, delivering deep emotion and comfort to the public, establishing him as a national singer loved across generations. Cho Yong-pil is praised not just for his hit songs, but for expanding the horizons of Korean popular music through continuous musical experimentation and innovation.
A Moving Stage to Add Meaning to the 80th Anniversary of Liberation
This concert is expected to be more than just a musical performance; it will be a meaningful occasion to reflect on the historical significance of the 80th anniversary of liberation. Cho Yong-pil's music has paralleled Korea's turbulent modern history, sharing the joys and sorrows of the nation. His songs have sometimes offered comfort and sometimes hope, providing great strength to the Korean people who lived through difficult times. On the 80th anniversary of liberation, the message delivered by his profound music will resonate even more deeply.
Concert tickets will be entirely free, aiming to allow more citizens to enjoy this historic performance together. Details regarding ticket reservation methods and the full schedule will be announced later through KBS. The concert is also scheduled to be broadcast on KBS 2TV during the Chuseok holiday in October, allowing fans who cannot attend in person to experience the King of Gayo's moving performance from their homes.
This KBS solo concert by Cho Yong-pil is highly anticipated as the 'King of Gayo' returns to terrestrial broadcast after 28 years and as a special event commemorating the 80th anniversary of liberation. His music is expected to once again touch the hearts of the nation and deliver hope and emotion.
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