Seoul, South Korea – In a stunning upset that captivated audiences across South Korea, Lee So-na has been crowned the fourth “Miss Trot” (미스트롯4) champion. The victory, announced on March 5, 2026, came after a dramatic reversal in the final round of voting, overturning earlier predictions and solidifying Lee’s position as a rising star in the popular Korean trot music scene. The competition, broadcast on TV Chosun, culminated in a nail-biting finale featuring the top five contestants: Gil Ryeo-won, Yoon Tae-hwa, Hong Seong-yun, Lee So-na, and Heo Chan-mi.
The final stage of “Miss Trot 4” centered around a “life song” mission, challenging each contestant to deliver a performance deeply personal and representative of their artistic journey. Lee So-na chose Patti Kim’s “Love is a Flower” (사랑은 생명의 꽃), a song that resonated with both the judges and the viewing public. Her performance was particularly poignant as her mother was present in the audience, adding an emotional layer to an already powerful rendition. Judge Jang Yoon-jeong, a renowned trot singer herself, praised Lee’s performance as the most sincere and joyful she had witnessed throughout the competition, stating, “I’ve been waiting for a stage like this.”
The competition wasn’t without its moments of surprise, and emotion. Earlier in the evening, Jang Yoon-jeong unexpectedly apologized to one of the contestants, the reason for which has sparked considerable discussion online, as reported by Sports Kyunghyang. While the specifics of the apology remain somewhat unclear, it underscored the high stakes and emotional intensity of the competition.
A Dramatic Turn in the Final Voting
While initial results indicated a strong showing from other finalists, including Heo Chan-mi, who delivered a moving performance reflecting her 16-year journey in the music industry, Lee So-na ultimately secured the win through a surge in real-time text message voting. This dramatic shift in the final tally highlighted the passionate engagement of the show’s fanbase and the unpredictable nature of the competition. Newsis reported that the final results were a testament to Lee So-na’s growing popularity and the dedication of her supporters.
The Journey of Lee So-na
Lee So-na’s victory marks a significant moment in her career. Throughout “Miss Trot 4,” she consistently impressed the judges with her vocal talent and stage presence. Her ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level, as evidenced by her final performance, proved to be a key factor in her success. The competition has provided a platform for her to showcase her skills and gain recognition within the highly competitive Korean trot music industry.
The other finalists also delivered memorable performances. Gil Ryeo-won’s rendition of Joo Hyun-mi’s “The King’s Road” (대왕의 길) showcased her powerful vocals, though she briefly stumbled by leaving her microphone offstage. Yoon Tae-hwa’s emotional interpretation of Lee Mi-ja’s “My Life is Song” (노래는 나의 인생) resonated with the judges, who praised her years of dedication. Hong Seong-yun’s performance of Lee Sun-hee’s “Fate” (인연) was lauded for its ability to capture the hearts of the audience.
The Impact of “Miss Trot”
“Miss Trot” has become a cultural phenomenon in South Korea, revitalizing interest in the trot genre and launching the careers of numerous singers. The show’s success lies in its ability to tap into the emotional core of Korean audiences and celebrate the artistry of trot music. The competition consistently draws high ratings and generates significant social media buzz, solidifying its position as one of the country’s most popular television programs. The show’s format, combining vocal talent with compelling personal stories, has proven to be a winning formula.
The impact of “Miss Trot 4” extends beyond the realm of entertainment. The show has sparked conversations about the challenges and triumphs of aspiring singers, the importance of perseverance, and the enduring appeal of traditional Korean music. It has also provided a platform for contestants to share their personal stories and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Looking Ahead
With her victory, Lee So-na is poised to become a leading figure in the Korean trot music scene. Her next steps are expected to include the release of a debut album and a series of concert performances. The show’s producers have indicated plans for a nationwide tour featuring the top contestants from “Miss Trot 4,” offering fans the opportunity to experience their favorite performers live. The future looks bright for Lee So-na and the other talented artists who emerged from this season of “Miss Trot.”
The success of “Miss Trot 4” underscores the continued popularity of trot music in South Korea and its ability to connect with audiences of all ages. As Lee So-na embarks on her new journey, fans eagerly anticipate her future endeavors and the contributions she will make to the vibrant world of Korean music. Share your thoughts on Lee So-na’s win and the impact of “Miss Trot 4” in the comments below.
