Rising Stars Shine at the 2024 KBS Acting Awards
On January 11, 2025, the 2024 KBS Acting Awards aired on KBS2, celebrating the achievements of new talent in the industry. The ceremony, hosted by Jang Sung-kyu, Seohyun of Girls' Generation, and Moon Sang-min, took place at the KBS Hall in Yeouido on December 31, 2024.
The Male Rookie of the Year awards went to Seo Beom-jun for his role in '멱살 한번 잡힙시다' (Let's Grab the Collar) and Park Sang-nam for '결혼하자 맹꽁아' (Let's Get Married, Bullfrog). Seo Beom-jun expressed his gratitude, saying, "I want to thank my beloved director, writer, all the staff, seniors, and colleagues who trusted me in 'Let's Grab the Collar.' To my family watching on TV, CEO Kwon Jin-young, and my team, I owe this moment to you. I will never forget the victims of the Jeju Air tragedy, as I portrayed a character who lost his family in a tragic event. Remembering those we have lost can be a source of comfort for others. I will also never forget them."
He continued, "2024 has been a challenging year. I find happiness when I can share joy with those around me. I hope everyone finds happiness, especially during this cold winter, and I look forward to a warm spring."
Park Sang-nam shared his excitement, stating, "It is an honor to receive a rookie award that can only be given once in a lifetime. I am grateful to my director, writer, and the seniors who created a supportive atmosphere on set, allowing me to perform without feeling intimidated. I want to dedicate this honor to my seniors and the staff who work hard behind the scenes. I will strive to be a humble and grateful actor moving forward."
The Female Rookie of the Year awards were presented to Hong Ye-ji for '환상연가' (Fantasy Romance) and Han Soo-ah for '미녀와 순정남' (Beauty and the Beast). Hong Ye-ji expressed her happiness, saying, "I am grateful to have spent time with Yeon-wol and to the director and writer for giving me the opportunity to live as Yeon-wol. Thank you to the staff who treated me well as the youngest member, and to my closest colleagues who have supported me since my debut."
She added, "A director once told me, 'Thank you for capturing your emotional lines on camera.' That resonated with me, and I will carry that sentiment as I continue to act. I believe this award is a warm encouragement to do well in the future. I also want to thank my family and fans who always uplift me with kind words."
Lastly, Han Soo-ah expressed her gratitude to the viewers, saying, "Thank you to the audience who watched our 50-episode drama and shared in our laughter and tears. I want to express my respect and love for the directors Hong Seok-goo and Hong Eun-mi, writer Kim Sa-gyeong, and all the staff and production team. I also want to thank my colleagues who worked hard alongside me. I wish everyone a warm and happy new year, and I will continue to work hard in the future."
