Rising trot singer Kim Da-hyun has been appointed promotional ambassador for Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province.
According to the city, Kim made her debut in 2019 as part of the group Cheonghakdong Gugak Sisters before gaining wider recognition in 2020 as runner-up on MBN's trot talent show "Voice Trot" and releasing her first solo single "Kkotchonyeo" ("Flower Maiden").
She went on to finish third on TV Chosun's "Tomorrow Is Miss Trot 2" in 2021. In 2024 she placed in the top three on MBN's "Hyeonyeok Gawang" singing competition and won the MVP award at the Korea-Japan Trot King and Queen Battle, cementing her reputation as one of South Korea's leading next-generation trot singers.
Her best-known songs include "Kkaman Baekjo," "Bok Deureogayu," "Kkotchonyeo" and "Chingan Gorae." She has built a wide following through her vocal talent, polished stage presence and approachable image.
Kim also serves as an honorary promotional ambassador for the 2026 Yeosu World Islands Expo and has been active in various efforts to promote regional culture and development.
Her grandfather is originally from Jungdo Village in Jinwol-myeon, Gwangyang. Across the Seomjin River from Gwangyang lies Hadong-gun in South Gyeongsang Province, home to the Cheonghakdong area where Kim grew up.
Gwangyang and Hadong-gun, which share the Seomjin River, have maintained a friendly relationship for nearly 30 years since signing a sister-city agreement in 1998.
"I am deeply honored and delighted to be appointed ambassador for Gwangyang, a city with which I have always felt a special connection," Kim said. "I will do my best to actively promote Gwangyang through a wide range of activities."
Mayor Park Seong-hyeon said he considered Kim's appointment highly meaningful and expressed hope that she would play a significant role in spreading awareness of Gwangyang's appeal across the country.
parkds@heraldcorp.com
