4th Blue Dragon Series Awards winners: After Baeksang snub, IU wins best actress for Netflix's When Life Gives You Tangerines
Hosted by Jun Hyun Moo and YoonA for the fourth year in a row, the event shed spotlight on the best K-Dramas and variety content released on various streaming platforms between June 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025. Organized by Sports Chosun, the awards continue to grow in prestige as they reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of Korean digital entertainment.
While expectations were cautious after the Baeksang snub, WLGYT received the recognition many felt it deserved, with IU's win serving as one of the best moments as she too was in shock. Here's the full list of winners from this year's Blue Dragon Series Awards:
Grand Prize (Daesang)
The prestigious Grand Prize, or Daesang, was awarded to Netflix's When Life Gives You Tangerines. Accepting the honour on behalf of the drama, actor Park Bo Gum expressed heartfelt thanks: "I sincerely thank the crew who worked hard through all four seasons. It was an honour to portray Gwan Sik. This was made possible thanks to the child actors and senior actor Park Hae Joon."
Best Drama
The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, another Netflix title, took home the award for Best Drama. Studio& CEO Kwon Mi Kyung remarked, "We're grateful that so many people resonated with the importance of this show."
Director Lee Do Yoon also shared his appreciation and praised the support of his lead actor: "Whenever I lost my way on set, he stood as a solid pillar. I dedicate this honor to the viewers who embraced our imperfect drama."
Best Actress
IU earned her first-ever Best Actress trophy for her emotionally resonant role in When Life Gives You Tangerines. Reflecting on the significance of the project, she spoke and said, "This will likely remain the proudest work of my life. It made me feel more alive and expressive than ever."
She went on to dedicate the win to the drama's characters and their real-life counterparts: "To all the Aesoons who lived their lives vividly in a world that told us to stay blurry, and to every Geummyeong who planted their dreams with boldness, I dedicate my respect and gratitude."
Best Actor
Ju Ji Hoon won Best Actor for his performance in The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call. Speaking about the challenges of adapting the series, he said, "Bringing a comic book to life is no easy feat. Thanks to everyone who helped make it realistic, especially my comrade, Director Lee Do Yoon."
Upbit Popularity Award
This year's Upbit Popularity Awards, determined entirely by fan votes, went to Park Bo Gum, Hyeri, Lee Jun Hyuk, and IU. A humorous moment unfolded during the ceremony when Lee Jun Young mistakenly walked onstage due to a name mix-up, bringing a touch of levity to the otherwise glamorous night.
Full list of winners – 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards
Grand Prize (Daesang): When Life Gives You Tangerines (Netflix)
Best Drama: The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (Netflix)
Best Variety Show: Culinary Class Wars (Netflix)
Acting Awards
Best Actress: IU – When Life Gives You Tangerines
Best Actor: Ju Ji Hoon – The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call
Best Supporting Actress: Yeom Hye Ran – When Life Gives You Tangerines
Best Supporting Actor: Lee Kwang Soo – Karma
Best New Actress: Kim Min Ha – Way Back Love
Best New Actor: Choo Young Woo – The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call
Entertainment & Variety
Best Female Entertainer: Lee Soo Ji – SNL Korea
Best Male Entertainer: Kian84 – Kian's Bizarre B&B
Best New Female Entertainer: Mimi – Kian is CEO
Best New Male Entertainer: Moon Sang Hoon – The Blank Menu for You
Special Awards
OST Popularity Award: Yeonjun (TXT) – Cinderella at 2 AM
Upbit Popularity Stars: Park Bo Gum, Hyeri, Lee Jun Hyuk, IU
LG U+ Good Influence Award: Ji Ye Eun – Kian's Bizarre B&B
For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
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