'Gayo Stage' Celebrates 40 Years: Announcer Kim Dong-geon Expresses Gratitude to Viewers

KBS1's 'Gayo Stage' marks its 40th anniversary, continuing its unwavering presence every Monday night since its debut in 1985.

Over the decades, 'Gayo Stage' has evolved beyond a mere music show, becoming a time capsule preserving the memories of Korean popular music and evoking nostalgia across generations. At the heart of this enduring program for the past 33 years has been announcer Kim Dong-geon.

Reflecting on the 40th milestone, Kim Dong-geon extended his heartfelt thanks to the singers, staff, and, most importantly, the viewers. "I wonder how we could have continued for 40 years without the viewers who loved and awaited 'Gayo Stage'?" he remarked, adding, "I am most grateful to the viewers who have consistently applauded, supported, and waited for us over such a long period."

Kim Dong-geon, who began his broadcasting career in 1963 as an announcer for Dong-A Broadcasting, is the senior-most active announcer to have hosted 'Gayo Stage' for 33 years. He shared that the driving force behind his long tenure is the joy he experiences seeing others enjoy the music: "As someone who loves music myself, I feel a great sense of fulfillment when I see people enjoying themselves while watching 'Gayo Stage'."

He recalled a particularly unforgettable moment during a special episode honoring the veterans and martyrs. He spoke of a war widow who carried her husband's watch close to her heart after his death in service. Kim Dong-geon was deeply moved by her sorrow, remembering her words, "My tears have all dried up," and admitting his own eyes still well up with tears when he thinks of her.

The 40th-anniversary special, titled 'Thank You, Everyone,' featured a touching reunion. A man, who as a child had sent a letter to his father working in Libya 40 years ago, returned with his mother to attend the show. Former contract workers from the Great Man-made River project in Libya, where the show was broadcast 40 years prior, were also invited, adding to the emotional resonance.

Twenty-four prominent artists representing the history of Korean music gathered for the celebration. A highlight was the appearance of veteran singer Im Mi-ja. She remarked humorously, "I was at my peak 40 years ago," and expressed her gratitude, stating, "'Gayo Stage' has provided a platform for junior artists to grow during the past four decades. I hope it continues for 100 years."

Netizens reacted with surprise and appreciation, commenting, "40 years already, amazing!" and "Thank you, announcer Kim Dong-geon, for the trip down memory lane." Many expressed hopes for the show's continued success.