Cha Tae-hyun Tears Up on 'Our Ballad' Premiere, Touched by Contestant's Story

Actor Cha Tae-hyun became visibly emotional, shedding tears during the very first episode of SBS's new music audition program, 'Our Ballad'.

Appearing as a representative of the 'Top 100 Vowels' panel on the show's premiere on the 23rd, Cha initially livened up the atmosphere with his signature witty remarks.

However, as the performances began, he adopted a more serious demeanor, listening intently to each contestant. The turning point came during contestant Lee Ye-ji's rendition of Yim Jae-beom's 'For You'.

Moved by Lee's backstory – how she nurtured her dream of becoming a singer alongside her father's trucking work – Cha Tae-hyun was overcome with emotion. He explained, "While listening, I was reminded of the sea in Jeju Island and my father driving. Moments with my own daughter also flashed by, filling my heart."

Throughout the episode, Cha Tae-hyun balanced his role as a judge, offering both sharp critiques and warm encouragement, resonating deeply with viewers who praised his genuine and human reactions.

Cha Tae-hyun debuted in 1997 with the KBS drama 'Propose' and has since starred in numerous hit films like 'My Sassy Girl', 'Scandal Makers', and 'Hello Ghost', showcasing his versatile acting skills. He is also a beloved figure in variety shows such as '2 Days & 1 Night' and 'Unexpected Business', known for his approachable and humorous persona. As a father of three, his sincere reactions often resonate with a wide audience.