Clash of stars: 61st Baeksang Arts Awards delivers shake-up in Korean entertainment
Amid a banner year for Korean entertainment propelled by breakout hits such as "When Life Gives You Tangerines," "Culinary Class Wars" and "The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call," this year's Baeksang Arts Awards delivered one of the most hotly contested races in the award ceremony's history.
Held Monday night at Coex in Seoul's Gangnam-gu, the Baeksangs, widely regarded as one of Korea's most prestigious awards spanning film, television and theater, were closely watched as globally beloved Korean titles battled it out for top accolades.
In a historic twist, the grand prize in the television category went not to a drama, but to a variety program, marking the first time in the ceremony's history that an entertainment show took home the top honor.
In the TV category, Netflix's culinary competition juggernaut "Culinary Class Wars" emerged victorious, clinching the grand prize.
'This feels especially meaningful to receive the grand prize for a variety show,' said Yoon Hyun-joon, CEO of Studio Slam, the production company behind the series. 'The stature of Korean variety shows is rising.'
Director Kim Hak-min reflected on the journey to the win: 'Ten years ago, I watched producer Na Young-seok receive the grand prize backstage at the Baeksang Arts Awards and wondered what it would feel like to win such an award as a producer. And now, something that felt impossible has actually happened.'
Meanwhile, Netflix's hit human drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines" secured four major honors, including best drama, best screenplay and both best supporting actor and actress awards.
Director Kim Won-seok emphasized the show's central message of empathy in his acceptance speech. 'These days, people call this an era of hate, but while working on this drama, I found myself thinking, 'Let's not hate, let's try living well together.' I believe this award recognizes that sentiment.'
The race for best actress in television was especially competitive, with nominees including Jang Na-ra from "Good Partner," Lee Ji-eun (IU) from "When Life Gives You Tangerines," Kim Hye-yoon from "Lovely Runner," and Go Min-si from "The Frog." Ultimately, Kim Tae-ri triumphed for her portrayal in "Jeong-nyeon: The Star is Born." Meanwhile, Ju Ji-hoon took home best actor for his performance in "The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call."
On the film side, the grand prize was awarded to the historical film "Harbin," headlined by Hyun Bin and Park Jung-min.
Veteran actor Jeon Do-yeon earned best actress for her role in the thriller "Revolver," while Cho Jung-seok picked up best actor honors for his comedic turn in "Pilot."
Auteur Park Chan-wook, previously honored at the Oscars for "Decision to Leave," won best screenplay alongside co-writer Shin Cheol for Netflix's period film "Uprising."
The film tells the story of Jong-ryeo, the son of Joseon's most elite military family, and his servant Cheon-yeong, as they reunite as enemies amid the turmoil of the Japanese invasions.
'Looking at the current political situation in our country, I often thought about this film. I believe there are strong similarities. Just like in the past, it's the brave and wise citizens who save a nation in crisis,' said Park during his acceptance.
He added a pointed political message: 'The time is coming when we must elect leaders who match the greatness of our people,' adding, 'Instead of someone like Cha Seung-won's character, King Seonjo, who is cruel and foolish, we must choose a leader who knows to fear the people,' referencing the upcoming June 3 elections following the impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol.
This year's Baeksang Awards ceremony, hosted by Bae Suzy, Park Bo-gum and comedian Shin Dong-yeob, honored excellence across content released between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. Eligible works included Korean feature films, television series, variety shows and streaming platform originals.
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