The Baeksang Arts Awards – South Korea's answer to the Oscars and Emmys, but with a twist! Since 1965, this glamorous event has not just been a who's who of the acting world; it's a celebration of the movers and shakers in Korean TV, film, and theater. The spotlight often shines on the crème de la crème of actors and actresses, but let's not forget the unconventional stars who snag the Grand Award (Daesang). From comedians to producers, these are the game-changers who steal the show!
Today, we're turning the spotlight to four trailblazing non-actors who rocked the Baeksang Arts Awards, each taking home the Grand Award for Television and rewriting the rules in their own unique ways.
Yoo Jae Suk – aka the "Nation's MC" and "God Yoo." This legend nabbed two Baeksang Grand Awards for TV (2013 & 2021) and holds a record for the most Daesangs won by a non-actor. With his YouTube talk show "Pinggyego" and iconic roles in "Infinite Challenge" and "Running Man," Yoo Jae Suk is a master of making us laugh and keeping us hooked.
Kang Ho Dong, the former wrestling champ turned TV superstar, broke barriers in 2008 as the first comedian to bag the Baeksang Grand Award for TV. From "X-Man" to "2 Days & 1 Night: Season 1," Kang's dynamic hosting style has redefined Korean variety TV.
Na Young Seok, better known as "Na PD," is the Midas touch of Korean TV. This visionary producer, who started stirring the pot with "2 Days, 1 Night," has a knack for creating shows that are not just hits but cultural phenomena! Think "Grandpas Over Flowers" and "New Journey to the West" – Na PD's creations are nothing short of legendary.
And let's talk about Kim Eun Sook, the queen of K-drama screenwriters. When she pens a script, magic happens. Remember 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God' aka 'Goblin'? That's her! She's also behind 'Secret Garden,' 'Descendants of the Sun,' 'Mr. Sunshine,' and 'The Glory.' With a flair for creating stories that capture hearts globally, Kim Eun Sook has become a household name, and rightly so.
These stars might not be your typical Baeksang awardees, but they're reshaping the landscape of Korean entertainment. From making us laugh to bringing us to tears, their talents know no bounds. Here's to the unconventional heroes of the Baeksang Arts Awards!
All worthy recipients in their own right 👌👌👌