Ha Ji-Won Makes Nostalgic Return to Music Shows After 23 Years with ‘Home Run’ Performance
South Korean actress and singer Ha Ji-Won made a surprise appearance on the long-running music show Show! Music Center on May 30, 2026, marking her first live music broadcast appearance in 23 years. The momentous event saw the star perform her 2003 hit “Home Run,” reigniting memories of her early musical career and captivating fans worldwide.
A Nostalgic Return to the Stage
Ha Ji-Won’s return to a music show was no ordinary performance. The 45-year-old star, known for her iconic role as the fiery lawyer Kang Mi-kyung in the 2009 drama Secret Garden, had not appeared on a live music program since her 2003 debut as a singer. The appearance was a fulfillment of a promise made during her web variety show 26th Grade Supporter, where she pledged to perform “Home Run” if the show’s viewership reached 1.2 million. The challenge was met, prompting her to step back into the spotlight.
The performance was arranged by Show! Music Center producer Han Seung-hoon, who shared his astonishment at the collaboration. “When Ha Ji-Won’s team reached out, we were completely taken aback. We kept asking, ‘Is this really Ha Ji-Won?'” Han revealed in an interview with OSEN. “Her performance of ‘Home Run’—a song from over two decades ago—was a historic moment we were thrilled to bring to life.”
Fans Reconnect with a Legend
The event drew an outpouring of emotion from fans, many of whom expressed disbelief at seeing Ha Ji-Won return to the stage. The show’s production team noted that the audience, composed primarily of her longtime supporters, filled the venue with fervent cheers, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the early 2000s. “It felt like time had stood still,” said Han. “Her energy and stage presence were as captivating as ever.”
Despite her 23-year hiatus from live music performances, Ha Ji-Won’s rendition of “Home Run” showcased a polished, evolved artistry. The performance,