Historic Night at KBS Drama Awards
The 2024 KBS Drama Awards marked an extraordinary milestone in Korean entertainment history as veteran actor Lee Soon Jae claimed his first Daesang (Grand Prize) at the remarkable age of 90. The pre-recorded ceremony, aired on January 11, 2025, was a bittersweet celebration, held privately in respect for the tragic Jeju Air plane crash victims while honoring the year’s most outstanding achievements in Korean television drama.
The evening showcased the incredible diversity of talent in the Korean entertainment industry, from seasoned veterans to promising newcomers. This prestigious event highlighted the evolution of Korean drama and its growing influence on global entertainment.
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A Legendary Victory
Lee Soon Jae’s historic victory for his role in “Dog Knows Everything” transcended typical award celebrations. After an astounding 68-year career that began in 1956, his win represents not just personal achievement but a testament to lifelong dedication to the craft. His portrayal of a man who develops a unique understanding with his dog Sophie captured viewers’ hearts and demonstrated that compelling storytelling knows no age limits.
The significance of this win extends beyond the personal milestone. It serves as an inspiration to both veteran actors and newcomers, proving that excellence in acting can be achieved at any stage of one’s career. Lee Soon Jae’s emotional acceptance speech moved both the audience and viewers at home, as he reflected on his lengthy journey in the industry.
Star-Studded Excellence Across Categories
The Top Excellence Awards celebrated remarkable performances across various drama formats. Kim Jung Hyun and Park Ji Young from “Iron Family” delivered powerful performances that resonated with audiences, while Ji Hyun Woo and Im Soo Hyang from “Beauty and Mr. Romantic” captivated viewers with their chemistry and emotional depth.
The Excellence Awards recognized outstanding achievements in different drama categories. In the daily drama category, Baek Sung Hyun, Oh Chang Suk, Ham Eunjung, and Park Ha Na were honored for their consistent excellence. The miniseries category saw idol-turned-actors Yeonwoo and Park Jihoon, along with actress Han Ji Hyeon, receiving recognition for their compelling performances.
Emerging Talents and Fresh Perspectives
The ceremony put a spotlight on emerging talent with the Rookie Awards, celebrating promising actors Seo Beom Joon, Park Sang Nam, Hong Ye Ji, and Han Soo Ah. These newcomers represent the future of Korean drama, bringing fresh energy and innovative approaches to storytelling.
The Best Young Actor category recognized Moon Seong Hyun and Lee Seol Ah for their remarkable performances in “Beauty and Mr. Romantic,” showcasing the depth of talent among Korea’s younger generation of actors.
Celebrating Creative Excellence
The awards also honored the creative forces behind the scenes. Scriptwriter Seo Sook Hyang received the Best Scriptwriter award for her work on “Iron Family,” acknowledging the crucial role of compelling storytelling in Korean drama’s success.
The Drama Special Awards, given to Nam Da Reum and Oh Ye Joo, highlighted KBS’s commitment to nurturing new talent through their special drama program, which serves as a platform for discovering fresh voices in the industry.
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Final Thoughts: A Night of Celebration and History
The 2024 KBS Drama Awards demonstrated the dynamic nature of Korean entertainment, from veteran actors making history to newcomers carving their paths. The ceremony not only celebrated current achievements but also set the stage for future innovations in Korean drama.
The evening’s highlight remained Lee Soon Jae’s historic Daesang win, proving that dedication, talent, and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements at any age. What are your thoughts on this legendary actor’s first major award after nearly seven decades in the industry? Share your perspectives in the comments below!
