Choi Kang-hee Wins Emotional Rookie Award at MBC Entertainment Awards

At the 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards, actress Choi Kang-hee received the Rookie Award, moving the audience to tears. The event, hosted by Jeon Hyun-moo, Lee Jang-woo, and Yoon Eun-hye, was broadcast live on January 28. Choi, who has been in the industry for 29 years, was recognized for her performance on 'The Manager' (전지적 참견 시점). Dressed in a stunning white lace wedding dress, she was overcome with emotion as she accepted her trophy.

"I know how precious this moment is, but I can't think of anything right now," she said, fighting back tears. Choi expressed disbelief at being on stage and struggled to recall the names of those she wanted to thank.

"I haven't done anything alone. This award belongs to the producers and writers. I want to thank the writers and producers who remembered and invited me back after my break. I remember the people who supported me during that time, including the owner of a meat restaurant in Incheon, my friends, Kim Sook, Song Eun-yi, and my cat's mom, Yang Chi-seung. Thank you all," she shared.

Song Eun-yi, who was watching, also became emotional during Choi's heartfelt speech. Choi continued, "I thought about what to say for two days, but nothing came to mind. For those who have faced similar struggles, even if standing here seems like a small opportunity, it is significant. Please don’t give up. I apologize for rambling, and I am incredibly grateful."

The MBC Entertainment Awards, which began as a comedy awards show, celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. Originally scheduled for December 29, the event was postponed due to a tragic accident involving a Jeju Air flight. After a national mourning period, the production team decided to hold the awards live on the first day of the Lunar New Year holiday.