[Edaily Starin KIM HYUNSIK Reporter] “K-Pop Hot Talk” is a weekly column that highlights memorable quotes gathered while covering the K-pop scene. <Editor’s Note>

◇“I want to grow into an artist like Lee Seung-chul”
These were the words shared by Lee San (19), the winner of ENA’s audition program “The Scout: Stars Reborn” (“The Scout”), during a recent interview with E-Daily.
“The Scout” is an audition program billed as a “growth-oriented music project.” Lee Seung-chul, who conceived the program, along with Kim Jae-joong, Wendy, and DAY6’s Young K, served as mentors to help raw talents who had not yet fully showcased their potential grow.
Lee San joined this newspaper’s exclusive interview with Lee Seung-chul, held to commemorate the latter’s 40th debut anniversary, where he shared his thoughts on winning the competition and his aspirations for the future.
“I’m so overwhelmed that the word ‘thank you’ doesn’t even begin to cover it,” he said. “There were many difficult moments and times when I almost gave up, but thanks to the help of the mentors and so many others, I was able to make it this far.”
Lee San nurtured his dream of becoming a singer in his hometown of Busan starting in middle school, and after becoming an adult, he moved to Suwon, where he continued his musical pursuits while working part-time jobs.
“I thought music-related information and opportunities were concentrated in the Seoul metropolitan area, so I decided to move to Seoul on a whim,” he said. “But since there were many practical difficulties in establishing myself in Seoul, I chose Suwon instead.”
He reflected, “To make ends meet, I worked a variety of jobs—at a hamburger shop, a convenience store, loading and unloading vegetables, as a teaching assistant at a cram school, and even wearing a teddy bear costume—all while nurturing my dream of becoming a singer.”
As an unsigned amateur, he grew through systematic training on *The Scout* and even won the title of champion.
Lee San said, “‘The Scout’ was a turning point in my life as a complete amateur,” adding, “By learning up close from professionals, I grew not only as a singer but also as a person.”
Lee San was born to a Peruvian mother and a Korean father. “My mother still speaks mostly Spanish,” he said. “Many people tell me my vocal tone is unique, and I think my mother’s influence plays a part in that. Although Latin American influences aren’t very prominent in my music yet, I think they’ll naturally blend in going forward.”
He continued, “The support from fans in Peru and across South America during the show was a huge source of strength,” adding, “They sent heartfelt gifts, including letters and handmade lion plushies—I was truly grateful. I don’t think I’ll ever forget it.”

Meanwhile, Lee Seung-cheol commented on Lee San, saying, “Not only are his visuals and musical talent exceptional, but his story is also extraordinary.” He added, “The fact that a young man who moved from Busan to Suwon to pursue his dreams won his very first audition is a story in itself.”
He continued, “I believe the journey of a young man who sincerely loves music as he fulfills his dreams can give hope and courage to many people,” and offered his support, saying, “I hope you’ll continue to watch Lee San’s growth.”
Lee San will continue his activities with LSC, where Lee Seung-cheol serves as executive producer. He is also scheduled to join Lee Seung-cheol’s 40th-anniversary nationwide tour as a special guest.
Lee Seung-cheol said, “I hope Lee San grows into a musician with a unique style, much like the pop singer Prince, who stood out for his creativity,” adding, “I will support him so he can develop into a musician capable of mastering various genres, including rock, dance, and jazz.”
Lee San expressed his determination, saying, “I want to grow into an artist who can exert a positive influence through music, just like my senior, Lee Seung-chul.”