Dami Im has got the X Factor! The South Korean born phenomenon took home the grand title of “The X Factor Australia” season five winner after beating her younger counterparts Taylor Henderson and Jai Waetford. Plus, Fall Out Boy, Guy Sebastian, and Katy Perry add to the already exciting finale on Monday night.

In the finale episode that no one could really claim was a surprise, the 24-year-old season favourite Dami became the show’s grand winner, beating 20-year-old country boy Taylor, who took the runner-up position.

But first, the top three performed with the U.S. emo-pop hit Fall Out Boy, and former “X Factor” judge and the first “Australian Idol” winner Guy Sebastian returned on stage with his single “Like a Drum.”

Apart from the announcement of winner, the most anticipated number in the show is perhaps Katy Perry taking the stage. She performed two numbers, first her chart-topping “Roar,” then her new single “Unconditionally.”

“Roar”

“Unconditional”

The show’s youngest contestant, Jai, landed third place earlier in the show after getting the lowest number of public votes, eliminating him from the running. Though disappointment was evident on the 14-year-old’s face, he showed maturity and his professionalism by graciously accepting his place.

It’s not the end of the road for him, however. His mentor, Ronan Keating, promised him that he will always have his back.

“I’m so proud of Jai. He’s tough for me to see him go. He’s 14 years of age and he’s an absolute superstar. Australia, get ready for Jai Waetford,” the Boyzone star proudly said of his charge.

“Whatever happens with X Factor and your contract and Sony, I’ll be happy to manage you. You just call me. I’ll be there for you.”

Onto the grand final decider, host Luke Jacobz has just made an art of prolonging the announcement, hitting over half a minute before saying Dami’s name.

“I don’t believe I won because I’m better than anybody else. I just believe that God has given me this talent for a purpose... and I want to use this talent to help people like me who are not so cool,” the stunned new titleholder said of her win.

In a fortunate twist of fate, Dami was initially eliminated from the show’s super bootcamp after the judges – Ronan, Dami, Redfoo, and Natalie Bassingthwaighte – became disappointed when she forgot the lyrics of the classic “Jolene.” However, she was called back to replace Matt Gresham, who left the show after deciding he couldn’t commit to the competition.

Along with winning the title, Dami also received a Sony Music Australia recording contract, with her winner’s single “Alive” being released after the show.

Watch the show’s highlights:

RELATED STORIES