Singer Hong Ji-yoon appeared on the first round of the finals of MBN's "2026 Korea-Japan King of Singers Competition," performing Jang Yoon-jung's "Songin."

Hong Ji-yoon, affiliated with Choik Creative Lab, faced off in a one-on-one impromptu selection match against her close friend and member of the Japanese team, Tae Ri, on the broadcast aired on the 21st. On that day, Hong Ji-yoon performed not only in the preliminary round's "100 Seconds Before" stage but also in the first round of the finals.

With the Korean team leading the Japanese team 4-3, Hong Ji-yoon appeared to secure the victory. She appeared on stage wearing an off-shoulder dress that revealed her shoulder line, showcasing her feminine charm. Before the match against Tae Ri, she expressed her determination, saying, "Sister, you've come a long way, but I'll make you go back crying."

Choosing Jang Yoon-jung's "Songin," Hong Ji-yoon said, "I will give it my all on stage." She conveyed the song's atmosphere with a soulful voice and wistful gaze, receiving enthusiastic support from the audience. Jung Soo-ra commented, "She seems to be becoming a master of song interpretation as time goes by. The part where she incorporated pansori vocal techniques was even more moving."

Meanwhile, "2026 Korea-Japan King of Singers Competition," featuring Hong Ji-yoon, airs every Tuesday at 9:30 PM. Hong Ji-yoon is also scheduled to participate in the "Active King of Singers 3" national tour concerts held in Changwon on the 25th and in Daegu on May 2nd and 3rd.