On July 6, 2025, celebrated songwriter Kim Ina appeared as a special guest on the popular SBS variety show My Little Old Boy, captivating viewers with insights into her prolific career and the songs that have defined her legacy. With an astounding 570 songs registered with the Korea Music Copyright Association, Kim Ina’s contributions to the Korean music industry are both vast and varied, spanning multiple genres and hit tracks.
During the episode, MC Seo Jang-hoon highlighted the impressive scope of Kim Ina’s work, noting the sheer number of compositions under her name. He then posed a poignant question: if Kim Ina could immortalize only three songs on her epitaph, which would she choose? Without hesitation, she selected IU’s iconic “Good Day,” Brown Eyed Girls’ electrifying “Abracadabra,” and Lim Young-woong’s heartfelt ballad “Now Only Trust Me.”
Kim Ina explained her choices by emphasizing the diversity these songs represent in her career. “I chose these because they showcase how versatile I have been as a songwriter,” she said, adding a touch of humor by admitting it was a way to “boast about my varied activities.” This candidness resonated with both the live audience and viewers at home, underscoring the depth and breadth of her artistic reach.
The conversation then turned to which song had been the most financially rewarding in terms of copyright royalties. Here, Kim Ina singled out Lim Young-woong’s “Now Only Trust Me,” describing it as her “number one filial piety song,” a term affectionately used to indicate a song that has brought significant financial benefit to her family. The panelists enthusiastically responded, with one quipping that it was a “complete money-making song,” while others joked about the steady stream of income it continued to generate.
Lim Young-woong, a beloved singer known for his emotional vocal delivery and strong fan base, has clearly made a significant impact not only on listeners but also on the songwriter behind the scenes. Kim Ina’s praise for the song’s success reflects the symbiotic relationship between artist and songwriter, where a hit song can elevate both careers simultaneously.
Kim Ina’s selection of “Good Day” by IU also highlights her role in shaping some of the most memorable moments in K-pop history. IU’s track is widely regarded as a defining song of the 2010s, showcasing Kim Ina’s ability to craft lyrics that resonate deeply with a broad audience. Similarly, “Abracadabra” by Brown Eyed Girls stands out as a genre-defining hit that brought a new level of sophistication and style to Korean pop music, further demonstrating Kim Ina’s adaptability and creative range.
Throughout the episode, Kim Ina’s warmth and wit shone through, endearing her further to fans and industry insiders alike. The panelists, including comedian Shin Dong-yup, noted the distinct genres of the three songs and how each had contributed to her success in different ways. Shin Dong-yup remarked on the “filial piety” aspect of the songs, a playful nod to how these hits have supported Kim Ina’s family financially.
Kim Ina’s career is a testament to the power of songwriting in the music industry, often an underappreciated craft behind the scenes. Her vast catalog and the enduring popularity of her songs illustrate how a songwriter’s touch can shape the soundscape of a generation. The recognition she received on My Little Old Boy not only celebrated her achievements but also brought to light the crucial role of lyricists in creating music that moves people.
As the episode concluded, the affection and respect for Kim Ina’s work were palpable. The “money-making” success of “Now Only Trust Me” was a humorous yet sincere acknowledgment of how a single song can have a lasting impact on a songwriter’s life, both artistically and financially. It also highlighted the ongoing popularity of Lim Young-woong, whose collaboration with Kim Ina continues to resonate with fans nationwide.
Kim Ina’s story is one of talent, versatility, and enduring influence. Her ability to craft lyrics that cross genres and generations has made her a cornerstone of Korean popular music. From the soaring vocals of IU to the sultry beats of Brown Eyed Girls and the heartfelt ballads of Lim Young-woong, Kim Ina’s pen has left an indelible mark on the industry.
In a world where performers often take center stage, Kim Ina’s appearance on My Little Old Boy served as a reminder of the artistry behind the scenes. Her candid reflections and the panelists’ playful banter offered viewers a rare glimpse into the life of one of Korea’s most prolific and successful songwriters. It’s clear that her legacy will continue to inspire both artists and fans for years to come.
