Park Kyung-lim Compares Young Contestant to IU: 'Reminds Me of Her in Middle School'

On the upcoming episode of SBS's music audition program 'Uri-deul-ui Ballad' (Our Ballad), broadcaster Park Kyung-lim discovers a budding talent that reminds her of superstar IU.

The third episode, airing tomorrow (7th) at 8:20 PM, continues with the first round themed 'My Life's First Ballad.' Viewers can expect performances from a diverse range of contestants, including a high school student with a clear voice reminiscent of IU, and the youngest contestant at just 10 years old.

Notably, a high school participant with a crystal-clear voice has chosen Kim Hyun-sik's 1986 hit 'Like Rain, Like Music.' This choice is particularly intriguing as the original song is known for Kim Hyun-sik's husky vocals and raw emotional delivery. The audience is eager to see how the young singer will reinterpret the classic. After the performance, Park Kyung-lim commented, 'I first met IU when she was in the second year of middle school, and this contestant gives me that same feeling,' raising expectations for the emergence of a 'second IU.'

Furthermore, the show teases the appearance of a contestant who completely captivated 'Ballad Prince' Jung Seung-hwan, even surpassing his personal taste. Jung Seung-hwan himself selected this performance as the best among all contestants, offering high praise. Curiosity is mounting about the identity of the participant who so impressed the emotional ballad singer.

The stage of the 10-year-old contestant will also be revealed. Influenced by her mother, who was a fan of singer Yangpa, the youngest participant chose Yangpa's 'A Child's Love' as her first ballad. Her performance reportedly brought smiles to the faces of the panel, including Cha Tae-hyun and Choo Sung-hoon.

Additionally, when a 17-year-old contestant introduced himself as a huge fan of Crush, the singer promised to invite him to his concert if he passes the first round, further motivating the participant. All eyes will be on whether this fan can deliver a stellar performance in front of his idol and earn a spot at Crush's concert.

SBS's music audition 'Uri-deul-ui Ballad' features contestants with an average age of 18.2 showcasing emotional performances that transcend their years. The 140-minute third episode airs tomorrow, the 7th, at 8:20 PM.

Korean netizens are buzzing with anticipation, with comments like 'Is a second IU already appearing?', 'Looking forward to the high schooler's performance!', and 'Who is the contestant Jung Seung-hwan picked as the best?' flooding online forums.