On a chilly Saturday evening, February 21, 2026, the airwaves of KBS2TV were filled with nostalgia, pride, and a touch of vulnerability as the beloved music variety show Immortal Songs paid tribute to one of South Korea’s most enduring musical icons: Sul Woon-do. The 745th episode, dedicated to this legendary trot singer-songwriter marking his 44th debut anniversary, was more than just a musical showcase—it became a heartfelt celebration of legacy, artistry, and family.
Sul Woon-do, often hailed as one of the “three kings” of Korean trot and affectionately dubbed the ‘Elvis Presley of Korea,’ has shaped the soundscape of Korean popular music for decades. With more than 200 songs to his name—including classics like 'Samba’s Woman,' 'Love Twist,' and 'Let’s All Cha-Cha-Cha'—Sul Woon-do’s influence is hard to overstate. According to The CEN News, he’s not only a prolific songwriter but also a mentor whose compositions have been gifted to stars like Lim Young-woong, Song Ga-in, Joo Hyun-mi, and Enoch, earning him the reputation of a musical Midas.
The special episode unfolded as a two-part event, airing on February 21 and February 28, both Saturdays at 6:05 PM, and brought together a dazzling array of Sul Woon-do’s direct juniors and rising stars. Each artist took to the stage, not only to honor Sul Woon-do’s musical legacy but also to reinterpret his hits with their own unique flair.
The evening kicked off with Cheon Rok-dam delivering a soulful rendition of 'Is This Love?,' captivating the audience with his mature, masculine charm. The energy kept building as Kim Soo-chan, often called the prince of the trot scene, performed 'Compass,' his charismatic stage presence making it impossible to look away. Park Seo-jin, known for his poignant vocals, chose 'Lost 30 Years,' a song that resonates with the painful chapters of Korean history, and his heartfelt delivery brought a hush over the crowd.
Other standout performances included Son Tae-jin’s vibrant take on 'Love Twist' and Jeon Yoo-jin’s spirited 'Samba’s Woman.' The show didn’t stop at solo acts—Jadu lit up the stage with 'Tonight,' while Kim So-hyang and Yoon Hyung-ryul joined forces for a theatrical, emotionally charged duet of 'My Love Like Starlight.' The night’s theme, “A Gathering of Genre Masters,” was on full display as each performer showcased the breadth and depth of contemporary trot.
Adding a personal touch to the occasion was the appearance of Sul Woon-do’s own son, Lee Seung-hyun. His performance of 'I Loved Only You' was more than a tribute—it was a moment of personal expression and reflection. In a candid interview with the show’s producers, Lee Seung-hyun opened up about the unique pressures and expectations that come with being the son of a national icon. "Because I’m my father’s son, I think he judges me more strictly," he admitted. "Whether I do well or not, it’s taken for granted. That’s something I have to deal with as his son, but it can be tough."
He went on to share, "I’ve worked hard both as an idol and in trot, trying to earn recognition in my own right. But I always feel like I fall short in my father’s eyes, and that’s left me feeling a bit diminished." Despite these challenges, Lee Seung-hyun recounted a touching memory from a family trip to Jeju Island a few years earlier. During that trip, Sul Woon-do told him, “If I weren’t your father, you probably would have received more affection and recognition in your career. I’m sorry for being such a big presence. But keep going. One day, people will understand your heart.” For Lee Seung-hyun, those words felt like a balm, a long-awaited acknowledgment of his quiet struggles.
The night continued with more electrifying performances. LUN8, a rising group known for their energetic stage presence, reimagined 'Let’s All Cha-Cha-Cha' with a fresh, youthful twist, infusing the classic with vibrant choreography and infectious enthusiasm. Meanwhile, D82 brought a new emotional depth to 'Purple Postcard,' their sensitive arrangement and delivery offering a different shade of farewell and longing.
Throughout the episode, the show’s producers made sure to highlight the intergenerational nature of trot. Veteran artists and newcomers alike stood side by side, each lending their voice to a genre that has weathered the shifting tides of Korean pop culture. As The CEN News reported, 'Immortal Songs' has built a reputation for producing legendary moments—performances that fans return to again and again, drawn by the blend of nostalgia and reinvention.
But perhaps the heart of the evening lay in the subtle, sometimes unspoken connections between the artists and their mentor. Sul Woon-do’s presence loomed large, not just as a performer but as a guiding spirit. His ability to nurture talent, share wisdom, and inspire both loyalty and a healthy sense of competition among his juniors was evident in every note sung and every story shared.
For viewers, the episode was a reminder of the enduring power of music to bridge generations, heal old wounds, and celebrate shared heritage. The performances were broadcast to homes across South Korea and beyond, inviting audiences to reflect on the personal and collective journeys that music makes possible.
As the first part of the special drew to a close, anticipation built for the second act scheduled for February 28. If the opening night was any indication, fans could expect even more memorable renditions and emotional revelations. The show’s regular Saturday time slot at 6:05 PM on KBS 2TV ensured that families could gather, as they have for years, to watch legends and newcomers alike breathe new life into the songs that have defined a nation.
In the end, Immortal Songs didn’t just honor Sul Woon-do’s 44 years in the industry—it offered a window into the hopes, anxieties, and dreams of those who follow in his footsteps. For Lee Seung-hyun, and for countless others inspired by Sul Woon-do’s journey, the message was clear: perseverance, humility, and a love for music can carry one through even the longest shadows. And for the rest of us tuning in, it was a chance to celebrate the magic of Korean trot, past, present, and future.