Korean singer's rags to riches story

This singing sensation on "Korea's Got Talent" lives on the streets for 10 years, as CNN's Paula Hancocks reports.

[@Snowy547]

I'll never complain again.

[@hmmBEEFY]

Lie

[@sabidrahman9987]

+hmmBEEFY hahaha

[@tetsuyakoroko185]

+Tanveer Anjum hahaha

[@ytim08]

+Tetsuya Koroko hahHahaha

[@ytim08]

K

[@elizabethadams2113]

My heart just physically hurts when I imagine him at 5 years old with nobody to hug him and tuck him in at night, no bed to sleep in, the loneliness! NO child should EVER have to go through what he has, and yet he fought and survived and has music in his soul. I hope he has people who love him now, not people taking advantage of his success, but someone who truly cares for him. He is so humble and kind I just want to hug him and protect him! I pray he only experiences happiness from now on, he has earned it! God bless him:)

[@BBBYpsi]

I also hope for his happiness. He deserves it. Unfortunately he is is in the music industry & they are scum balls. But after what he has been thru he might think they are angels.

[@terrywren5176]

Elizabeth Adams I know this is a old posting but thank you for sharing your heartfelt comments. Bless you

[@terrywren5176]

BBBYpsi Yes I think most people have heard about those awful stories but I'm hoping and praying that he was led in the right direction so they could help him. Even one or two of the judges offered to help him. Eventually he will discover what it feels to be loved and I hope his life is filled with love, happiness and success. He deserves only the best in his life and one day I believe he will make a outstanding husband and father.

[@wasilaify]

Elizabeth Adams Korea is COLD in winters.

[@srali7609]

Nothing new in india africa bangladesh pakistan syria iraq etc...

[@jaxbus3000]

Sometimes, not often, the underdog does win. What a fabulous story.

[@JJDBaca]

+jaxbus3000 no doubt. Makes me want to be a better person.

[@gollum19671967]

It was very humbling watching this. Please God, give me the grace never to complain again. Glad to see his life turn around.

[@jackbrewer7661]

+Dot Merah What makes you say that heathen, don't tell me there is no God. We'll ask for your advice if we want it. Now crawl back in your hole and shut up.

[@YouVSMeTV]

+Dot Merah How do you know theres no god?

[@professorinsane2166]

+YouVSMeTV how do you know there is a god? you have the burden of proof; extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.

[@YouVSMeTV]

+Jacob bates I didn't, im just asking cause people always say that theres no god but they can never actually answer why. They just shift the weight of their claim against the believer without providing anything to the conversation. I mean you can only see like a few thousand feet ahead of you.

[@YouVSMeTV]

+Jacob bates I ask both believers and non their reasoning. It is merely to gather information on the human condition. The role of religion in peoples lives.

[@randihigginbotham5070]

I have sobbed. What a story. His life on screen will be spectacular. Bless this lovely young man😭🙏🏾☺️

[@jeremyn6825]

Who cares which Korea he's from. Just listen and appreciate this man's angelic voice.

[@Sheeple101]

That's Communist News Network (CNN) for you. They break the best story with garbage... he needs to brought into the opera and let him grow even more now. He's great. The reporters are idiots.

[@JoUnrau]

This boy gives me hope for the world. What has happened to him is incredible.

[@dorff09]

I had tears, just like both female judges and we, along with ,millions of others were correct. He deserves anything the public will award him. Brilliant.

[@n.c.173]

The most beautiful thing about this is what he wants to make of his newfound situation. He can take his talent and reach immense fame and wealth because he has the capabilities, and now the resources to do so. Instead, he wants take his talent and give back to a world that's ignored him for the majority of his life. Despite the early mistreatments he's faced, he still wants to help others who have struggled or are struggling as he once did. To be able to put someone else before himself even having gone through such a rough childhood is simply beautiful and amazing on his part.

[@rhisaalcala2730]

You touched my heart, I cried... Filipina from Hongkong.. God bless you always.

[@MrSonyscout]

Wow they guy had the crappiest life imaginable, even buried alive. Yet he isn't angry, he isn't acting out, he is just taking it all as it comes, you couldn't get more humble than this. This guy is a fantastic example to all who are struggling, and a lesson to those who have made it but are arrogant. He deserves everything he gets, because he has achieved it all against all odds. This guy should be the international ambassador or Hope.

[@feelingoffbalance]

When I first heard his audition I had multiple shivers because of his singing, like my whole body was reacting and it's not just because of his story; there is something in his voice, it's so powerful and so pure.

[@javisycarolina]

I complain about my problems but after this I should br more thankful

[@bobert4him]

You and me both, sister...

[@Jarfiller]

If people kept comparing themselves to people below them they would have no motivation to improve. But it is useful to learn that your problems aren't the center of the universe.

[@tomkissinger7713]

Carolina Montoya nn

[@rafaelthecrusader7968]

ill give a week. put trust if you don't forget and always be thankful for the little u have u will be happy

[@jessi1971]

Im happy the kid got some support and help, he deserves it!!

[@MrGuitars8]

I wish him nothing but Blessing after Blessing in life.

[@mihneacristian8828]

God has always watched over him. :) God bless u2

[@helgaahw]

he is a gift from god

[@princepersia1]

+Alan Wells His butthole is a gift!

[@harrykim4711]

+Ethan Ward That isn't funny, 9 year old brat.

[@ntujqubqab3479]

+Absolamb Salmon His Mom n His Dad, they were the God, Give him a life even though they were gone.

[@onceuponatime4786]

Alan Wells he definitely is!

[@skue208]

Amen! I praise God to rescue him from death, send him an angel, and make him a great witness of the life♡

[@dflnceforlife9980]

He changed his pain into greatness.

[@keziahdenisegamboa2050]

Very touching and amazing story. I cant help but cry... Keep it up boy. Really God is good!!! From philippines with love.

[@akanecortich8197]

He could have turned to crime, hated the world, but instead ...

[@cockroachcharlie5619]

Valjeans Soliloquy a bit there?

[@swatidas374]

Akane Cortich right

[@Sketches8]

Like joker

[@markedrianchavez7343]

Yeah... . He endure all the sufferings and made himself a better person in return.

[@shibin4675]

He's a Naruto in the real life

[@josterlund2]

Thanks you to his music teacher who he found on the internet.... he is a true hero.

[@gwenferry2070]

He stole my heart, what an inspiration this beautiful man is:-)))0 He has natural raw talent, he will get better with maturity. I hope his life is good from now on and he finds his place, wherever he wants it to be.

[@kimberlyfitzgerald9100]

I started crying when he started singing and I didn't understand one word! Love you from America.

[@daveyjay15]

His first time on Korean Got Talent I didn't understand what they were saying but read along the bottom but when first started singing Tears filled my eyes rather quickly. I've only listened to him for 3 days but for about 5 times a day. I really love his voice.

[@merlina995]

This song seems represents his rough journey and this young man still humbly and looks so innocence. Nella Fantasia (In My Fantasy) In my fantasy I see a just world, Where everyone lives in peace and honesty. I dream of souls that are always free Like the clouds that float Full of humanity in the depths of the soul. In my fantasy I see a bright world Where each night there is less darkness. I dream of spirits that are always free, Like the clouds that float In my fantasy exists a warm wind, That blows into the city, like a friend. I dream of souls that are always free, Like the clouds that float Full of humanity in the depths of the soul.

[@mipajaro1]

My heart as many others,went out to him. I am so glad to see how humble he is. Good things for him. bwhen he first said he had a place I was happy then when cnn said where he was living I was saddened again. Now he has a place, greatful for people having a heart to give forward.

[@MagosGr]

Mary Soto You mean thank god he had a voice else he would be in the same place like many kids around the world . Nowadays its all about having good voice or good looks other people don't deserve to live apparently.

[@mipajaro1]

Times are hard, many people do not food resources. I have had homeless children, I have had a daughter on the streets. I had one that slept in a van. Everyone deserves a chance.yet so many do not accept help. Shelters, food banks, so many places to go. Research it.

[@andorflandorffer4657]

+Mary Soto ,s8s776

[@rdvd16]

God is with him. And will be with him for ever. And he is never alone!

[@Alicia-ch3cr]

Humble soul! God rewards his strongest and toughest soldiers... Bless you

[@Stoic2000]

I cried for all the time I have spent complaining about how hard life has been on me when it really hasn't. Any to see a child go through real hardship rather than inconvenience, find his talent pursue it and succeed. Accepting his past and moving forward in spite of it. To have that strength is a great thing. He is also a great talent. Thank you to his teacher for enabling us all to hear him.

[@nancylinda945]

im so HAPPY for this GUY.., GOODLUCK..,MORE SUCCESS IN UR LIFE & CARER..,

[@malcolmknight8293]

sometimes we complain about life when you see someone with the fight and courage this young man has to try and put this gift of a voice for the world to listen to and enjoy just makes me feel that life is to be enjoyed to the full not complained about thanks to utube for putting it out there .

[@consorciadeleon-scholtz6740]

I CRIED WHEN I HEARD HIM SINGING BUT I AM HAPPY THAT HE FOUND A NEW LIFE THROUGH SINGING GOD IS ALWAYS WATCHING YOU KNOW

[@luvlylady55]

just goes to show u..that not everyone has a good life..this boy..showed his spirit in wanting to survive..bravo to thim and i hope he goes very far in life..

[@CandaceJacallen]

Choi, you are amazing! I hope you keep singing and have great success!

[@marinevet3488]

If this boy's story doesn't move you then you are either the rock or the hard place. Or maybe just a hard case. I'm glad to live in a world where people like this young man exist.

[@dorarobertshaw7492]

He has came so far in his life. I listened the first time he ever sang and wondered what ever happened to him. I am so proud for him to finally getting a break. Keep singing, because you have a beautiful voice.

[@ECA5279]

I've watch this video many times and it makes me cry..not because of his story but there is something in his voice so powerful...that can touch anybody's hearth...

[@teacherleyva4813]

What a warm story! May this boy have all the blessing he deserves!

[@AliveandReconnected]

Thanks for the good news ...Sung-bong Choi is such a beautiful and kind soul. He touches my hearts so readily with his sincerity and his grace

[@DanceForever93]

Wow! His story shall bring hope to all who are in despair. Amen.

[@roseosena2704]

Its a very inspiring story. God really has a purpose in his life. Do good to other less fortunate kids and may God bless you Sung-Bong Choi.

[@jennivanrooyen5963]

+Rose Osena and where was your God when he was living on the streets and almost killed?

[@bio0link]

+Jenni van Rooyen Funny thing isn't it so easy to give credit to god when good things happen, but as soon as something shitty happens he's no where to be found. This is the work of a young man's determination and passions to give credit to a fable is beyond insulting.

[@iloveclips7095]

What has God to do with him? I can't remember, he ever mentioned even a single time God. Music was his help to face his life.

[@deltadaze6836]

+Clip compilations Ah, Clippy, don't be scare of the mention of God. Search for the Joy of Jesus.

[@papaload1192]

+D H wtf

[@IftikharKhan-xx4vm]

He is great singer, God has gifted him with good voice. May he live long

[@PlanetJigobotTV]

His story is dope.....respect

[@rayanvlogs9203]

I hope your being sarcastic

[@PlanetJigobotTV]

musictasticx No I'm not at all. This dude grew up on the streets found music and he ended up winning this competition. When your having a bad day just remember it could be worst

[@thefirem4ster864]

+PlanetJigobotTV Fuck You

[@ralphghost]

TheFireM4ster gutless turd

[@iamaloha2]

This is a beautiful story of a courageous young man who kept the FAITH on a hard journey. He earned his greatness today.

[@marviegarcia4325]

i must admit.. i cried a lot bcoz of this sohhh gooood voice.. and what hes been through...

[@raspur]

i love this story hope he can contribute to a society people like himself from all over the world. . we all needed help to make a better world . i simple hope he make the right path . truely amazing story i love it.

[@honglimtan6449]

CNN you have given a very good report on this young man

[@KOTHFanRantsandVidsisawesome]

Wish CNN would do more of these stories.

[@darykanicolof741]

HongLim Tan

[@S966174]

This kid have a great voice and pure hearth that many uknow people are in the world .

[@lionessgirl88]

aww I love this kid and his story!!! It just goes to show not to ever give up on a dream.....the universe will always provide a way to achieve your dream, no matter where you come from!

[@MyMimixoxo]

I am soo happy for him, it is a sign of perseverance and dedication. He deserves the best and deserves to be loved and admired! Love youuu Sung Bong Choi

[@minafanelli8931]

God bless you my boy... and I agree about complaining about petty things... I bet this young man never complained a day in his life, You Go brother!! go all the way to the TOP!!!!!!!!❤

[@kimsalazar5933]

Never look back. You are amazing!!!!! XO from USA XO

[@med4kmd]

Mr. Sung Bong Choi certainly deserves the good life that is coming his way. There is no reason why the program "Korea's Got Talent" can't step up and see to it that he has 2-3 close people helping him with this major life transition, including a vocalist tutor, a financial advisor, a social worker/psychologist, etc. Mr. Choi's background of rags to riches is exceptional, but I truly believe there need to be some kind of moral responsibility taken by those who are initially profiting off his story and vocal ability. I wish him all the love, luck and success the world has to offer.

[@해당화-g3y]

최성봉 진정한 인간승리입니다. 그의 목소리는 영혼을 치유하는 최고의 명약입니다.. 세계 각국 나라에서 큰사랑 받으시고 늘 건강하고 최고로 행복한 가수가 되길 응원합니다..

[@DowonKim]

지금은 어떤가요

[@libanwarsame5428]

I have watched his first Korea got talent contest, where he won a lot of sympathy from the panel and audience alike, mainly for his amazing talent and childhood background as well.

[@elizabethmeredith8878]

WOW made me cry how can his own parents abandon him then beat up then ran away at five come on what a fantastic voice I wish you well in life

[@naughtyminx65]

cannot believe he was ignored at such a young age ..where was the compassion for this abandoned child ...May he find someone out there that shows him love someday

[@sabumir16sabumir77]

his talent n courage is mind blowing..

[@patriciatotterer3031]

Tears come to my eyes. I am a social worker. This young man is so precious. So brave and endearing. He is forever in my heart. Thank you for your gift!

[@elizabethdevela188]

Troy you have capture my HEART!!! Your background has TOUCH my HEART n SOUL!!! It made me cry!!! I'm so very Sorry what u went through!!! NO CHILD should NEVER go through that!!! TROY YOU ARE A SURVIVER!!! I'm so Happy you found a passion for singing and with that it kept you Alive and now you have a TREMENDOUS FUTURE!!! Always be HAPPY!!! You DESERVE All the HAPPINESS and BLESSINGS!!! Keep up that SUPERB VOICE of YOURS!!!

[@KhajiitSicario]

No matter what happens to this guy, good or bad, i just want to find this guy and give him a much-needed hug. Even if he hits rock bottom, I want to give him that hug. I love his voice, even though i could only understand bits and pieces of the songs. I Started to cry after hearing his story and his voice, since they are both incredible, and i wish i could have the courage and the natural talent that this man has. Good luck in life, and i wish you the best!

[@101crazy4candy]

I feel like this should be made into a movie

[@cherylhampton910]

I JUST LOVE THIS YOUNG MAN.. HE IS TRULY AN INSPIRATION TO OTHERS THAT HIS LIFE IS WORTH SOMETHING. I WISHED I COULD JUST HUG HIM RIGHT NOW. HIS MUSIC BRINGS ME TO TEARS SO TOUCHING

[@Skr4x]

You negative people in the comments are despicable. You should all be ashamed, this guy has been through more than most and kept hope alive in an otherwise hopeless position. Many of us have lost that integrity and can learn much from this young man. His voice is chilling and compelling! I hope he's still soaring to new heights!

[@nicsimpson661]

I wish I was there I would be his friend and always try to help him I would care for him and support him if I was there I would always be there for him in his bad times I wish I could help him... I want to be there for him. 😔

[@steffikoh_]

and so do i... if we were there during those times.. hays

[@arlenefaulconer9003]

Totally changed my look on my life.Wow this guy has been through so much in his life and came from having nothing and i complain of the simplest things.I wish him all the best in his life.His story has changed me forever.

[@marymagee805]

he deserves more than most to be happy, bless him.

[@Svenner.]

I still think he should've won he has the best voice I've ever heard.

[@jjher1]

We as so blessed to have you. Best of luck, with all you do. There is a gift in you to share, important and valuable. All our love from Australia.

[@melchorbasuela2022]

I will never complain for what i have now. Got teary for this guys life story on his childhood. Godbless u more and more

[@janeparksmith]

Hope ... he embodies hope... how incredibly mesmerizing and powerful!

[@leonardnordenstrom8785]

I really despise seeing haters to such a wonderful man. please just accept him as he is.

[@paulinephillips4678]

awesome man who took him in and helped him big hearted wishing you all the best choi

[@laydbakk1]

When I first heard this kid, I thought... Wow... Still do...

[@jonwilson9005]

I also was born in South Korea, abandoned age 3 to Buddha temple, and ran away age 5 to search for my parents, lived on streets, eating off ground & trash cans, sleeping in bus stations, sick with polio, & in abusive orphanages. Got adopted to US , years abuse from stepmom, grew up in group home, got depressed as teen, tempted suicides, and struggled as an adult. I managed to get my life together in my 30s & published a book called "You Don’t have to Live in the Past " by Jon Wilson. I haven't had lot of chance to promote my book. Just word of mouth on social media. My plan is to go find my parents in Korea & help those in need! With my book, I can make those dreams come true!

[@Felix2008ify]

It really touched me. God gave him talent to succeed in life. Sometimes we didn't realize how great we are and what talent God gave us and it is our job to discover what is that talent. 😂

[@WaRnuk3rTV]

god doesnt exist

[@Kukikahi]

Tomek how could you say that, so rude... God exists and God is life

[@WaRnuk3rTV]

Momo Nana No god is trash

[@Kukikahi]

Tomek I pray God forgive you, u r such a pathetic person

[@WaRnuk3rTV]

Momo Nana You should pray that I forgive god

[@matthewellul2608]

HAT OFF TO THIS BOY WELL DONE !!

[@elreyjoshsac9464]

He is amazing,i felt all his pain what he been through during his childhood,but God is so good he never leave unattended.thou he struggle a lot at the end God bless him with a great voice and change his life for good.godbless

[@ashbjorn]

Rest in peace dear Sung-bong Choi, your voice will remain in our memories forever.

[@howardpower]

A lot of people say he was trained professionally. Well, hello!!!! Of course!!! Once he was discovered and surprised everyone on Korea Got Talent!!! Once his voice was heard, he was sponsored professional vocalists to really get him even better than he was before. He had talent already, but was fine tuned afterwards.

[@ngoclinhtrangvo1921]

The social worker was right. There should be someone to provide him with mental health support along with material one. Everyone was busy focusing on the miracle story without forecasting the challenges that come along with it, for someone with such a hard background

[@quinenufor8117]

I am happy for him because no matter what happened he stood up for himself.

[@fireice2037]

So humble. Amaging talent. Beautifuly tragic story. He has everything. Its impossible not to love him.

[@MrGuitars8]

Your Blessings have only begun , you are such a gifted singer and person . You are most of all a Teacher to all who have seen your story .

[@creamtard6370]

i i could give a hug to anyone it would be someone him or someone that was in his situation

[@narnelisha8355]

Does not matter where this boy came from not trying to discredit his struggle In life but you'd think he came from a rich family that had every resource at his finger tips and teachers or coaches and lessons but no this kid is just naturally talented amazing every bit of credit given is more than deserved

[@bonniec.9962]

What a fabulous young man, I've followed him and read his book. Such a beautiful person and what a fabulous gorgeous voice. He is loved around the world...

[@BBBYpsi]

How can anyone complain about their lives or misfortunes after seeing what this remarkable young man has been thru.

[@samuelayobami1060]

Truly amazing story.

[@lornemackenzie1189]

An amazing young man to get where he is today. God bless him and a long life ahead. I'm sure he is now loved by many

[@imusie8545]

That man is SungBong Choi a man that has a hard life and has fought hard to have the life he has now thank you SungBong

[@jimattwater2124]

May your life be blessed with joy, happiness and success. My heart goes out to you for overcoming the obstacles that stood in your way. Please keep singing;your music brings joy to peoples hearts!

[@austinaustin4611]

man,this story is soo beautiful bless him soo much

[@marilu8888]

It gives me such happiness to know he is finally getting the blessings he deserves

[@LoveMyValedictorians]

This boy has been through way too much. What a heart wrenching story.

[@lindablais7567]

I didn't understand a word his voice is amazing I wish only the best for you what a story god bless!

[@IIIRikaIII]

I'm italian and often i listen italian music performed by foregien singers and I don't like them, I listen too much difference from my language. But, I think this guy is incredible, he can and he know how perform italian song. And yes, he remember me Bocelli pretty much. Congrats.

[@merlina995]

I totally agree with you, he is incredible. This song seems represents his rough journey behind his success. I feel sorry of what happened in his childhood life but I am also thankful that finally this young man made it his success and this is only the beginning. He also seems humble, hope his parents found him someday and ask sorry of what they have done to him when he was so little.

[@allmusicgirl]

Awwwws. This is so amazing. I hope life will be full of blessing. He deserves to be number one.

[@5RustyBin]

Good for you son - may your spiral be ever upwards - couldn't happen to a nicer young man.

[@DragoMusivini]

Many of us complain about not having the most simplest pleasures.He survived all odds to get to this point.Mashallah,alhamdulillah you go kid.

[@jxditthh]

Came here from the video of when he auditioned in Korea's Got Talent, very emotional video, even made a judge cry! If you havent seen it you should watch it, its really heart breaking to hear his story

[@lilafleet]

What an amazing young man. He's so talented & an inspiration to so many people. God bless him.

[@jameskelly3509]

I love this kid..I am sure he will make it big someday!!