A New Era for Korean Cinema: Han Ji-min and Lee Je-hoon to Host the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards

The 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards is set to usher in a new era for Korean cinema with the announcement of its new hosts, actors Han Ji-min (한지민) and Lee Je-hoon (이제훈). The prestigious ceremony will take place on November 29 at KBS Hall in Yeouido, Seoul. Following Kim Hye-soo's (김혜수) departure after a 30-year association with the awards, there has been much speculation about who would take over the hosting duties, with many actors expressing their interest in the role.

The selection of Han Ji-min and Lee Je-hoon has been met with widespread approval in the industry, with the Blue Dragon Film Awards organizing committee stating, "We are honored to have Han Ji-min and Lee Je-hoon with us as we open a new chapter in the history of the awards. We will do our utmost to contribute to the advancement of Korean cinema together with them."

Both actors have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, making them fitting choices for this esteemed role. Han Ji-min began her career in 2003 with the SBS drama All In, and made her film debut in 2005 with Cheongyeon. She gained critical acclaim for her transformative role in the film Miss Baek, which earned her the Best Actress award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards. Known for her innocent first-love image, Han Ji-min took a bold step in her career by portraying a woman traumatized by sexual assault in Miss Baek, a role that challenged the norms for female actors at the time.

During her acceptance speech, Han Ji-min moved many to tears as she expressed her gratitude to Kim Hye-soo, referring to her as a constant source of inspiration and support. Their close friendship has been a notable aspect of their careers, further solidifying the connection between the two actresses and the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

Lee Je-hoon also shares a special bond with the Blue Dragon Film Awards. He made his film debut in 2006 with the movie Truth, Litmus and won the Best New Actor award at the 32nd Blue Dragon Film Awards for his role in the groundbreaking independent film The Front Line. Lee Je-hoon, who was hailed as a rising star in Chungmuro, has since proven his worth as a leading actor in Korean cinema with films like The Battleship Island, Architecture 101, and I Can Speak, among others. He continues to influence the industry positively while advocating for the growth of Korean cinema.

Currently, Lee Je-hoon runs a YouTube channel called Je-hoon Cinema, where he highlights old and independent theaters across the country, contributing to the film industry's development. His efforts to shine a light on smaller cinemas in an era dominated by multiplexes have garnered applause from the industry, and his genuine passion for film resonates with audiences.

With Han Ji-min and Lee Je-hoon at the helm, the Blue Dragon Film Awards is poised to enter a new era. Han Ji-min expressed her hopes that the awards will once again deliver messages of hope and encouragement to filmmakers and audiences alike, committing to uphold the tradition and values of the event. Lee Je-hoon echoed this sentiment, promising to prepare diligently to ensure that the ceremony is a true celebration for all involved.

This year marks a significant revival for Korean cinema, with numerous films attracting over 10 million viewers, signaling a resurgence in the industry after years of stagnation. Many critically acclaimed films have been nominated across various categories at the Blue Dragon Film Awards, heightening anticipation for which films and actors will take home the coveted trophies at Korea's premier film festival.