The end of year music festival MBC Gayo Daejejeon celebrates its 20th anniversary with a new face and a bold new era.
After Girls’ Generation’s Yoona stepped down after a decade as the show’s beloved MC, the production team announced her successor: Annie, an up-and-coming rookie idol from the co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT.
MBC Gayo Daejejeon has long been Korea’s most iconic New Year’s music festival, airing live every December 31st and welcoming the new year with spectacular performances.
This year marks the twentieth edition of the show since it adopted its current name in 2005 following previous formats such as MBC Competition 10 singers AND Korean Song Festival which date back to 1966.
For the milestone year, producers sought a “fresh but symbolic choice.” Police chief Jang Woo-sung told Sports Chosun: “After Yoona decided to step down, we had long discussions about who could fill the next decade Gayo Daejejeon. Since K-pop is now a global movement, the new host had to be a “next generation artist that the world is watching”. Annie seemed like the natural choice.
Despite only debuting six months ago, Annie has already made waves as one of K-pop’s fastest-rising debutants. His group ALLDAY PROJECT dominated the charts with hits like “Famous” and “Wicked,” earning them the title of “rookie monster.”
According to PD Jang, Annie impressed the team with her intelligence, stage charisma and leadership: “She has proven her worth through her work. In just six months she developed her color, which is what distinguishes her as a true artist of this generation.”
Annie’s appointment has sparked mixed reactions online due to her high-profile family background: she is reportedly the eldest daughter of a Shinsegae Group executive.
PD Jang, however, dismissed the concerns, stating that his selection was based solely on merit: “She is an artist who is proving herself through her actions. We were struck by how she is shaping her identity independently, not through her background.”
This year’s MBC Gayo Daejejeon will present a lineup of three hosts:
- Minho (SHINee) – brings professionalism and charisma,
- Hwang Min-hyun – return to broadcasting after military service,
- Annie (ALLDAY PROJECT) – infuses new energy and youthful style.
“Annie’s confidence and presence will complement the team chemistry perfectly,” PD Jang said. “As always, the festival will remain warm and family-friendly, closing out 2025 and welcoming 2026 with unity and joy.”
THE MBC Gayo Daejejeon has been a vacation staple for Korean families for nearly sixty years. This year’s broadcast promises to honor tradition while highlighting the modern spirit of K-pop led by a new generation ready to carry the torch.
2025 MBC Gayo Daejejeon will air live on December 31st.
Sources: Sports Chosun
