Kim Jang-hoon: "35 Years of Vocal Controversy? I'm Grateful... That's How 'Soo-tuk-hoon' Was Born"

Singer Kim Jang-hoon expressed gratitude towards his anti-fans for creating a "historical controversy" that could even make it into the Guinness Book of Records regarding his vocal abilities, stating, "I'm actually thankful to them."

In an interview with the YouTube channel 'Knowledge Inside' released on the 8th, Kim discussed the birth of his alter ego 'Soo-tuk-hoon,' saying, "My singing style is polarizing. If I sing a million times, I sing it a million different ways. They took just those parts and made videos, and it became a hot topic. Isn't it interesting that there's a singer like this? Regardless of the original intent, that's how 'Soo-tuk-hoon' was born."

Kim actively embraced the character 'Soo-tuk-hoon,' which helped him gain recognition among younger audiences familiar with social media. He explained, "It all started with the phrase, 'Is this even a singer?' but I took it lightly, and as people found it amusing, they began to see me as a big-hearted person. Then they started listening to my music, and it caught on, much like Pyongyang cold noodles or fermented skate."

When asked by MC Han Seok-jun if he found it difficult to endure the criticism, Kim replied, "When times are tough, I focus on the support I receive. If I were truly incapable, I wouldn't be able to continue as a singer. People still invite me to perform, and my shows sell out." He conveyed his confidence in his abilities.

Kim has been involved in charitable activities for a long time, with a reported cumulative donation amounting to over 20 billion won. However, he also faced a hiatus due to controversies and the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated, "I took time for self-reflection and introspection. I really took it seriously. I know how I've been, so when someone says, 'You're finished,' I can confidently respond, 'No, I'm not finished. I have the potential to rise even higher.'"

Kim has also garnered attention for his relatively low concert ticket prices, offering a special rate of 20,000 won for teenage attendees. He even expressed a desire to lower ticket prices to around 33,000 won. In an industry where concert tickets often exceed 100,000 won and can reach up to 200,000 won, what motivates him to take such actions?

He explained, "For me, performing is a hobby, and I want to earn money elsewhere. Once I adopted that mindset, I never found performing boring; I always felt excited. After a period of intense self-reflection during the pandemic, I became deeply grateful to the audience who came back to see me. Even if I'm called the 'national beggar' now, my business is doing well. I want to earn money through my business and pursue romance in my performances. Showing a great show to the audience without burdening them is the ultimate romance for me," he emphasized.

[SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn]