Trot singer Song Ga-in says she was never ashamed of shaman mother

By KTimes

Singer Song Ga-in is set to share her heartfelt feelings about her shaman mother in an upcoming episode of TV Chosun's "Mr. Trot 3."

"Mr. Trot 3," currently airing, has maintained its position as the No. 1 program in its time slot across all channels for 10 consecutive episodes. The latest episode, which determined the top 10 contestants advancing to the second round of the semifinals, recorded its highest ratings yet, reaching a nationwide viewership of 15.2 percent, with a peak of 16.1 percent, according to Nielsen Korea.

On the upcoming episode, "Miss & Mr. Trot Memory Trip," airing on Tuesday, legendary performances and behind-the-scenes stories will be revealed as the singers use trot music to deliver messages to their parents.

“My mother is a state-designated Intangible Cultural Asset No. 72, a Jindo Ssitgim-gut (Purification Ritual of Jindo) practitioner and shaman," says Song Ga-in, who won the "Miss Trot" title in 2019. “I was never ashamed of my mother’s profession, not even once since childhood. She has always been a mother I am proud of." The episode will also showcase performances of her iconic songs "Mother" and "Mom Arirang," dedicated to her mother, delivering deep emotions to viewers.

The episode will also revisit 2020 "Mr. Trot" winner Lim Young-woong’s heartfelt performance of "Traitor," which he sang during the finals to express his longing for his father, who died when he was 5 years old. Lim also conveys his gratitude and love for his mother, who raised him alone. Additionally, the episode will feature performances that moved even singer Lee Chan-won to tears, such as Lim’s "Mother’s Song" and "Song to My Wife."

Emotional tributes by Young Tak and Jang Min-ho are also anticipated. "Mr. Trot" runner-up Young Tak will share the story behind his song choice, "Drink Makgeolli." Known for once harboring resentment toward his father, Young Tak deeply expresses his love for him through this song. The episode will reveal what transpired between Young Tak and his father.

The episode is also set to highlight legendary final performance of "Because I Am a Man" by Jang, who competed in the "Mr. Trot" finals.

Before his performance, Jang visited his late father’s resting place. “He passed away before seeing me start my trot career,” Jang said, shedding tears. The program will also feature a series of his signature songs, including "You Know My Name" and "Hoechori," which solidified his image as a devoted son.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.