"In the middle of a difficulty lies opportunity" -Albert Einstein
Not everyone has an easy start, and life often tends to surprise us with many unexpected turns. For Choi Sung Bong, difficult circumstances were thrown at him ever since he was young. At the age of three, Sung Bong was left at an orphanage, but shortly after ran away after he was beaten up daily by some people at the orphanage. He was barely making a living by selling gum and energy drinks on the streets for the following ten years. All alone, Sung Bong spent dreadful nights on stairs and in public restrooms. Music was what gave him hope during the painful years. He recalls listening to a passionate singer while he was selling gum at a nightclub, who brought him to love singing.
In 2011, Sung Bong finally decided to take the opportunity to audition for Korea's Got Talent. The judges noticed his application was empty in the "family" and "job" section and were instantly drawn to curiosity. After questioning him, they were touched by his passion for music especially considering his situation.
Choi Sung Bong brought tears to the judges as he sang "Nella Fantasia", or "Gabriel's Oboe", a song known for its high, deep range of notes. He received three acceptances from three judges and successfully continued on to the final round.
This particular man made the program ratings burst through the roof as people all over Korea were touched by his story and continued to support him. He continues to pursue his passion for music by performing at different events and programs in the Korean Entertainment Industry. To this day, despite some people who point at him saying "It was all an act", he says in an interview, "I am busy serving others".