Singer Hong Ji-yoon won with a highly polished performance in the second round of the finals of MBN's "2026 Korea-Japan King of Singers Competition."

On the broadcast aired on the 28th, Hong Ji-yoon appeared on "2026 Korea-Japan King of Singers Competition" and competed in a "one-song battle" with Japan's Azuma Aki, performing Na Hoon-a's "Why Are You Crying." In this performance, Hong Ji-yoon delivered the traditional trot singing style with a modern touch, showcasing her clear and sweet vocal tone and delicate vibrato technique. Wearing a dress on stage, Hong Ji-yoon synchronized her emotional expression with Azuma Aki during their duet parts.

After losing in the first round of the finals, Hong Ji-yoon approached the second round with determination, stating, "I only think about making up for the humiliation of the first round's crushing defeat." After the performance, Japanese singer Utagokoro Rie praised, "The picture created when Hong Ji-yoon's bright voice and Aki's relaxed and stable voice blended was very beautiful." Hong Ji-yoon scored 91 points, surpassing Azuma Aki and securing victory for the Korean team. Kim Soo-chan mentioned, "It seems that mixing Enka singing style made her performance look good," and Azuma Aki also said after the stage, "There is no way to beat the king of singers."

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