Son Bin-ah, the runner-up of TV Chosun's "Mr. Trot Season 3," is set to release his first mini-album.
His agency, Yuseonsu Entertainment, announced on October 2 that Son Bin-ah will release his first mini-album, "I, You" (literal translation), on October 23. This marks the very first trot album produced by TV Chosun. The agency explained, "This is the first time in the history of the 'Miss Trot' and 'Mr. Trot' series that an album has been produced for an artist from their all-time TOP 7."
The album features a total of seven tracks, including the title track "I, You" and the double title track "Let's Be Lovers". It spans a rich variety of styles, from poignant ballad trot and songs infused with 1970s and 1980s nostalgia to upbeat dance trot. A stellar lineup of composers participated in the project, including Kim Hyun-jin—who wrote "I Want to Go to Maryang"—alongside Jang Yoon Jeong, Park Hyun-jin, and Park Sang-cheol.
The album jacket embraces a visual concept reminiscent of 1980s Hong Kong noir films.
The agency stated, "We aimed to project the image of a man who appears tough and rugged on the outside but carries solitude and loneliness within," adding, "It captures both Son Bin-ah's signature bold masculinity and an unexpected boyish charm." Describing the record, they added, "It is a well-made adult contemporary album created through the synergy between Son Bin-ah and TV Chosun's production know-how, built over years of producing hit trot audition shows."
Son Bin-ah finished as the runner-up on "Mr. Trot Season 3." During the competition, he earned the nickname "The Man of All 100s" after becoming the first contestant in the history of the "Mr. Trot" franchise to receive a perfect score from every single master. Following the show, he has continued his active broadcast career as a regular cast member on TV Chosun programs such as "Firey Friday" and "Miss Trot for You." Recently, membership in his official fan cafe, "Shining Star," surpassed 30,000.
Teasers for "I, You" will roll out sequentially, starting with concept photos, followed by a highlight medley, a full album streaming medley video on YouTube, and a listening session. The album will be released on October 23 at 6 p.m. KST across major streaming platforms and physical retail stores.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)