The long-running year-end music festival 'MBC Gayo Daejejeon' is set to welcome the new year with a fresh face. As the show celebrates its 20th anniversary under its current name, a new generation of talent will take center stage with rookie idol Annie of the co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT, who will step in as the new MC following Girls' Generation’s YoonA.
'MBC Gayo Daejejeon' has long been Korea’s representative year-end live broadcast, ringing in the new year alongside viewers every December 31. Since its origins in 1966 as 'MBC 10 Greatest Singers Battle,' the show has evolved through titles such as 'Top Ten Singers Festival' and 'Korean Music Festival,' officially adopting the 'Gayo Daejejeon' name in 2005.
This year’s production carries special meaning as the 20th edition of the program, and with it comes a bold new decision from the production team. After a decade of serving as the show’s symbolic host, YoonA stepped down, leaving behind a legacy that would be difficult to match. Her successor is one of the most talked-about new names in K-pop, Annie, who will take the stage just six months after her debut.
In an interview with Sports Chosun, PD Jang Woo Sung, who directs this year’s show, shared the reason behind Annie’s casting. “When YoonA stepped down after 10 years, we had many discussions about who could take her place,” Jang said. “K-pop is now at the center of global attention, so the new face of 'Gayo Daejejeon' had to be someone who truly represents this era. Annie was the most natural choice.”
Jang explained that the team wanted to honor tradition while also presenting a modern perspective that reflects the current state of K-pop. Annie’s meteoric rise supported that vision. Since her debut, she has dominated music charts with hits such as “FAMOUS” and “WICKED”, quickly earning the title of a “monster rookie.”
“Annie has shown smart, charismatic leadership through her activities since debut,” Jang continued. “She captured the public’s attention in a very short time and embodies the image of an artist fit for a new generation.”
Annie’s selection has generated both excitement and speculation, partly due to her well-known background as a member of a prominent business family. Addressing those discussions, Jang stated, “Annie is proving herself through her work. What impressed us most was how quickly she is developing her own artistic identity.”
This year’s MC lineup will feature SHINee’s Minho, Hwang Min Hyun, and Annie, forming a dynamic combination that balances experience, warmth, and youthful energy. “Annie’s confidence will bring great synergy to the team,” Jang said. “As this stage marks the end of one year and the beginning of another, her presence will add new vitality to the show.”
He concluded by expressing his hopes for the upcoming broadcast. "'MBC Gayo Daejejeon' has always been a program families enjoy together at the end of the year. This year will be no different. We aim to close 2025 warmly and open 2026 with a new and refreshing spirit.”
The '2025 MBC Gayo Daejejeon' will air live on December 31.
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