Song Hae
Overview
Song Hae (April 26, 1927 – June 8, 2022) was a South Korean broadcaster and MC. His birth name was Song Bok-hee (송복희). From 1988 to 2022, he hosted KBS 1TV's 'National Singing Contest' (전국노래자랑) for 34 years, earning the title 'National MC.' He remained active even past the age of 90, holding the record as the oldest MC, and is recorded as the person who hosted a single program for the longest period in Korean broadcasting history.
Main Content
Early Life
Song Hae was born in 1927 in Yeonbaek County, Hwanghae Province. He defected to South Korea during the Korean War and later lived in Busan. In his youth, he worked as a singer, gaining popularity at the '1st Korea Songwriters Association Works Presentation' in 1955. He then entered the broadcasting industry, starting his career on radio and TV in the 1960s.
Hosting 'National Singing Contest'
In May 1988, Song Hae was selected as the second MC of KBS's 'National Singing Contest.' He led the program for 34 years until 2022, traveling across the country. His characteristic cheerful hosting style and grandfatherly friendliness endeared him to viewers. The show became a national program, ranking first in weekend morning viewership ratings.
Oldest MC Record
Song Hae remained active even after the 2010s, holding a Guinness World Record as the 'Oldest TV Program MC.' In 2019, he hosted 'National Singing Contest' at the age of 92, drawing attention. He maintained strict health management and always appeared bright on stage.
Social Contribution Activities
Beyond broadcasting, Song Hae participated in various social contribution activities. In 2010, he supported projects for displaced people from his hometown, Yeonbaek County, Hwanghae Province. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he donated 100 million won, spreading positive influence.
Death and Legacy
On June 8, 2022, Song Hae passed away at the age of 95. His death prompted widespread mourning, and KBS aired a special program to honor his achievements. Many fellow entertainers, politicians, and ordinary citizens paid their respects at his funeral. His legacy transcends mere broadcasting records, remaining a symbol of Korean popular culture.
Recent Trends
As of 2024, various projects are underway to honor Song Hae's legacy. KBS is producing a documentary covering the history of 'National Singing Contest,' and exhibitions about his life have been held in Seoul and Busan. Additionally, in 2025, the 'Song Hae Award' will be established to honor individuals who have contributed to regional cultural development. Displaced people's groups from his hometown, Yeonbaek County, Hwanghae Province, are pursuing inter-Korean cultural exchange projects in his spirit.
Related Topics
- [[National Singing Contest]]
- [[KBS]]
- [[South Korean broadcasters]]
- [[Oldest MC]]
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