KBS 2TV music variety show 'Immortal Songs' has confirmed the appearance of broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae. Lee Hwi-jae is attracting attention by announcing his return to broadcasting after about four years. Producer Choi Seung-beom explained the background of Lee Hwi-jae's casting in an interview on the 5th. He stated, "This appearance was planned as part of a special featuring entertainers."

Producer Choi said, "'Immortal Songs' is not a program exclusively for singers. While planning an entertainer king of singers special, we decided to cast Lee Hwi-jae." He added, "Although they are not singers, we decided to hold a special featuring entertainers who have released albums in the past." The decision for Lee Hwi-jae to appear was based on his long career and his nationwide recognition.

Lee Hwi-jae had been active in music, releasing his first album 'Say GoodBye' in 1995 and his second album 'Blessing You' in 1997. Producer Choi emphasized, "There is concern that it might appear as if Lee Hwi-jae is making a comeback through the program," and said, "This is not a proposal to open the door for his comeback." He requested, "Please do not see Lee Hwi-jae as anything more than one of the contestants, and not as a grand return."

In addition to Lee Hwi-jae, various stars such as Jo Hye-ryun, Hong Seok-cheon, Park Jun-hyung, Song Il-gook, Oh Man-seok, Moon Se-yoon, and the Lalal 'Gag Concert' team (Park Sung-kwang, Jung Beom-gyun, Lee Sang-hoon, Seo Seong-gyeong) are scheduled to appear in this 'Immortal Songs' special. Producer Choi said, "The common point among this cast is that they are entertainers who have experience releasing albums in the past," and added, "Their performances will be an interesting highlight for viewers."

Regarding Lee Hwi-jae's willingness to return to broadcasting, Producer Choi said, "I have not directly confirmed his intention," and cautiously mentioned, "If he had no intention to return, he would not have appeared on 'Immortal Songs'." He explained, "Lee Hwi-jae's side must have reviewed various programs, and it seems that coordination with our program led to his appearance."

Lee Hwi-jae stopped his entertainment activities after ending his role as MC of KBS 2TV entertainment information program 'Live Every Moment' in 2022. It was later revealed that he moved to Canada with his wife Moon Jung-won and their two sons Seo-eon and Seo-jun, sparking retirement rumors. The family is living in Vancouver, Canada, and Moon Jung-won has recently resumed her SNS activities, drawing attention.

The 'Immortal Songs' 2026 Entertainment King of Singers special is scheduled to be filmed on the 16th. Producer Choi expressed, "We expect Lee Hwi-jae's appearance to have a positive impact on the program," and said, "It will provide enjoyment to the audience and viewers with a special concept."