Han Seok-kyu Wins Grand Prize at 2024 MBC Drama Awards

The 2024 MBC Drama Awards took place on January 5, honoring the outstanding performances of actors and productions from the past year. The prestigious Grand Prize was awarded to Han Seok-kyu for his role in '이토록 친밀한 배신자' (The Betrayer). The ceremony, hosted by Kim Sung-joo and Chae Soo-bin, was initially scheduled for December 30 but was postponed due to the tragic Jeju Air plane crash that claimed 179 lives. In a somber tribute, all attendees wore black to honor the victims.

Among the dramas aired in 2024 were '밤에 피는 꽃' (Flowers Bloom at Night), '원더풀 월드' (Wonderful World), '수사반장 1958' (Detective Chief 1958), and '백설공주에게 죽음을-Black Out' (Death to Snow White). The nominees for the Grand Prize included Lee Ha-nee from '밤에 피는 꽃', Kim Nam-joo from '원더풀 월드', and Yoo Yeon-seok from '지금 거신 전화는' (The Call You Are Making Now).

Upon receiving the award, Han expressed his condolences for the recent tragedy, stating, "I feel a deep sense of regret for being here today. As actors, everything we do is for the audience, and it pains me to celebrate amidst such sorrow." He emphasized the importance of family, which is a central theme in his work, and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

The Best Actor award in the mini-series category was shared by Lee Je-hoon for '수사반장 1958' and Yoo Yeon-seok for '지금 거신 전화는'. Both actors began their speeches by honoring the victims of the plane crash. Lee Je-hoon highlighted the influence of his mentor, while Yoo Yeon-seok expressed hope for a brighter new year.

Other notable awards included Best Couple, which went to Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin, and the New Actor award, shared by Lee Ga-seop and Heo Nam-jun. A special tribute was also paid to the late actress Kim Soo-mi, who passed away in October 2023, with her daughter-in-law accepting the award on her behalf. The event concluded with a call for unity and healing in the face of national tragedy.