Fans carry Jang Minho, Kim Yong-bin and Sungri to Trot Champion top 3

Jang Min-ho, Kim Yong-bin, and Sungri Reach the Peak of the First Half Chart with Fandom Support

The protagonists who led the trot landscape in the first half of 2026 have been decided. MBN ON's 'Trot Champion' revealed the results of its first half settlement awards through the 'Trot Champion Summer' special broadcast on the 23rd.

The winners of the highly competitive first half Champion Chart TOP3 are Jang Min-ho, Kim Yong-bin, and Sungri. Jang Min-ho seized the trophy based on the powerful support of his fandom, 'Minho Special Forces.' Jang Min-ho shared his thoughts, saying, "I believe this precious trophy is in my hands thanks to the great support from all of you who love trot, especially the members of Minho Special Forces. I will continue to repay you with good music."

Kim Yong-bin also secured a spot in the upper ranks, greeting fans by saying, "I am so happy. Thank you sincerely for giving me so much love." Sungri, who also joined the TOP3, expressed affection for his fandom, 'Sung-ri-hak-ja.' Sungri stated, "This was all made possible by the 'Trot Champion' viewers who cheer for me and my most beloved Sung-ri-hak-ja. I will take this as a sign to work harder and remain humble."

Soo Yeon Lee and Harua Named Hot Star and Rising Star

The performances of new faces also drew attention. Soo Yeon Lee, selected as the Hot Star of the first half, expressed her gratitude to fans, saying, "I am so thankful with all my heart."

Harua, named the Rising Star, marking his first award since debut, shared his ambitions: "This is my first award since debuting. I will continue to work hard to become a singer who puts in even more effort."

This settlement was conducted via voting among 30 candidates through the 'Celeb Champ' app. The reflection ratios varied by category: the Rising Star was determined 100% by judge scores, while the Hot Star combined 70% online voting with 30% judge scores. The Champion Chart TOP3 final rankings were determined by combining 60% online voting, 20% broadcast scores, and 20% judge scores.

Under the hosting of MC Jang Min-ho, the 'Trot Champion Summer' special featured special stages and talks from 12 trot stars who stood out in the first half, including Kim Da-hyun, Kim Su-chan, Kim Joong-yeon, Na Tae-joo, Park Seong-on, Bin Yeso, and Choi Su-ho. Previously, Jang Min-ho's 'Good Times' and Kim Yong-bin's 'It Was You Yesterday and It Is You Today' were inducted into this year's 'Trot Champion' Hall of Fame.