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Lee Soo attended the first recording for the new season at MBC Media Center in Sangamdong, Seoul on the 21st where he sang MC the Max's "Farewell for Now". He shared during his first filming, "It's been 6 years since I've been on major broadcast... More than anything else, I chose to appear on 'I Am A Singer' because I place seriousness in artists singing and not putting their focus anywhere else. I also thought it was right for me to greet you all through music."

He also attended the press conference for the show held yesterday where he was revealed to be a part of the artist lineup. However, with news of his appearance being formally announced through the event, netizens criticized the show and the singer, stating that it is not right that a man, who was accused of paying for sex with a minor, will be appearing on a major-network broadcast.

In response to the backlash, MBC announced a change of plans by releasing a notice today, the 22nd, that read, "In respect for our viewers' opinions, we've made the final decision to not have Lee Soo appear on 'I Am A Singer 3'... We ask for the understanding of the viewers who love the program, and we will try to make a program that is in accordance with the viewers."

Lee Soo's side spoke out in fury, calling MBC's decision unjust and absurd. His agency rep told media outlets,  "We found out that he was leaving the show from the news articles... We cannot understand MBC's one-sided decision. We were about to finalize our contract with the show tomorrow (23rd), so this is for us a very absurd situation. We will be looking into action against MBC."