
KBS is presenting a major project this Chuseok. It is a grand special show starring the "King of Singers," Cho Yong-pil. This performance, with a production cost of tens of billions of won, is composed of a three-hour main broadcast and a three-part special. Titled "Cho Yong-pil, This Moment Forever," this project marks the solo stage of the legendary Cho Yong-pil, who spans all generations in Korea, appearing on KBS for the first time in 28 years since the 1997 "Big Show."
The special show will air on October 3 as "Cho Yong-pil, This Moment Forever - Prequel," on October 6 the main performance "Cho Yong-pil, This Moment Forever," and on October 8 the concert behind-the-scenes documentary "Cho Yong-pil, This Moment Forever - Record of That Day." Through this project, KBS aims not only to broadcast a simple concert but also to highlight Cho Yong-pil as an iconic figure in Korean popular music and achieve financial success simultaneously.
The performance will be free of charge. Although the choice was made to share a musical experience that spans all generations rather than focus on concert revenue, it could be a challenging endeavor for the broadcaster. KBS plans to turn this into an opportunity by leveraging Cho Yong-pil's influence as a special effect for the holiday season. Given past experiences where large holiday projects have simultaneously boosted viewership ratings and advertising revenue, expectations for this Chuseok special show are high.
KBS put considerable effort into securing Cho Yong-pil. The reason why it is said that it was achieved after three visits is that KBS has long been dedicated to inviting Cho Yong-pil. The production team stated in a press release, "A special time will unfold where families can sit together and enjoy Cho Yong-pil's timeless hits that span generations."
Cho Yong-pil's presence remains unparalleled in the history of Korean popular music. Since the 1970s, he has left numerous hit songs such as "Come Back to Busan Port," "Mona Lisa," and "Short Hair," forming a strong fandom. This special show is not merely a reflection on past glory but a stage that demonstrates his ongoing relevance. To this end, KBS has prepared top-level directors, stage equipment, and special effects in Korea. The stage production, especially using cutting-edge technology, adds to the viewing pleasure.
In an era dominated by OTT and YouTube, the opportunity to see the "National Singer" Cho Yong-pil on the home screen is precious. KBS believes that the greatest gain will be strengthening the channel itself and the brand image of the "holiday special show." Having previously achieved success with holiday specials featuring artists like Lim Young-woong and Shim Soo-bong, expectations for this Cho Yong-pil show are even higher.
Attention is focused on what results this grand production, which KBS has prepared with utmost dedication, will achieve. Through this project, KBS plans to reexamine Cho Yong-pil's musical legacy and establish a connection with new generations. Since Cho Yong-pil's music has been loved across generations, this special show is expected to receive great responses from family viewers as well.
KBS has set a strategy to reaffirm Cho Yong-pil's musical influence through this special show while strengthening its position as a broadcaster. Cho Yong-pil is an icon of Korean popular music, and his music continues to move many people. This project will be an important opportunity to reflect on the history and culture of Korean music beyond a simple broadcast.
Through collaboration with Cho Yong-pil, KBS plans to create new content and strengthen communication with viewers. Cho Yong-pil's music possesses a timeless charm, and this special show will be an opportunity to highlight that charm once again. KBS intends to faithfully carry out its role as a broadcaster while continuing Cho Yong-pil's musical legacy through this project.
KBS's special show will not be just a performance but will establish itself as an important event encompassing the history and present of Korean popular music. Cho Yong-pil's music will continue to be loved by many, and KBS expects to secure a new viewer base and further enhance its status as a broadcaster through this.