Song Hae to retire as host of KBS's 'National Singing Contest'

Song Hae, a 95-year-old veteran television presenter, has asked to step down as the host of KBS's "National Singing Contest" after helming the show for 34 years, according to the broadcaster on Tuesday. "Song Hae revealed that he wanted..

Veteran television presenter Song Hae [JOONGANG ILBO]

Song Hae, a 95-year-old veteran television presenter, has asked to step down as the host of KBS's "National Singing Contest" after helming the show for 34 years, according to the broadcaster on Tuesday.

"Song Hae revealed that he wanted to leave 'National Singing Contest'," said a staff member from KBS. "We are discussing our plans for the future and will release an official statement soon."

The staff member said that Song cited his health, which worsened after he contracted Covid-19 in March, as the reason for wanting to leave the show. "He said that he was no longer confident hosting the show and that time has come for him to step down," said the staff member.

Song took a break from hosting “National Singing Contest” in March when he tested positive for Covid-19. He also took a break in January for different health issues.

"National Singing Contest" aired its first episode on November 9, 1980. The program is a singing competition that goes around the country and shines light on talented amateur performers. Song started hosting the show 1988. He is Korea's longest-running presenter on a television program. Song is also the oldest active Korean celebrity.

BY LEE JIAN [lee.jian@joongang.co.kr]