Singers Shine at Year-End Awards: Jang Nara and Lee Chan Won Take Top Honors

In a remarkable turn of events, singers dominated the year-end broadcasting awards in South Korea. Jang Nara, who delivered a stellar performance as divorce lawyer Cha Eun Kyung in 'Good Partner', won the Grand Prize at the 2024 SBS Acting Awards. Meanwhile, Lee Chan Won, known for his appearances on KBS variety shows such as 'Immortal Songs', 'Newly Released Menu', 'High-End Salt Bug', and 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret', also took home the Grand Prize at the 2024 KBS Entertainment Awards.

This year, the spotlight was on singers as they claimed prestigious awards in both the acting and entertainment categories. Notably, the traditional year-end music award shows have transitioned into music festivals, allowing singers to shine in unexpected arenas.

Historically, it has been common for singers to receive accolades at the 'Acting Awards' and 'Entertainment Awards'. For instance, Tak Jae Hoon from Country Kko Kko won the KBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2007 and the SBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2023, while Koyote's Kim Jong Min received the KBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2026.

Stars like Lee Hyori, Kim Jong Kook, and Lee Seung Gi have also crossed over between these fields, winning top honors in both music and entertainment. Lee Hyori won the SBS 'Music Awards' in 1999 as part of Fin.K.L, and again in 2003 as a solo artist, while also taking home the SBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2009. Kim Jong Kook achieved similar success, winning multiple music awards in 2005 and the SBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2020. Lee Seung Gi has been recognized at the SBS 'Entertainment Awards' in 2018 and the KBS 'Acting Awards' in 2022.

Despite the prevalence of singers winning in acting and entertainment categories, it remains rare for actors or entertainers to receive awards in music. This trend is partly due to the shift in year-end music award shows to festival formats since 2006, as well as the nature of other major music awards like Mnet's 'MAMA', 'Melon Music Awards', 'Golden Disc Awards', and 'Seoul Music Awards'.

While many singers successfully juggle careers in acting and entertainment, the reverse is not as common. Instances of child actors re-debuting as K-pop idols or established actors releasing music projects are infrequent.

A representative from a music management agency noted, "Singers are adept at live performances, which naturally enhances their spontaneity in variety shows. Although more actors are appearing on entertainment programs now, singers have traditionally been the top choice for guest appearances. Many singers also excel in expressive acting, leading to a growing acceptance of singer-turned-actors."

Another industry insider commented, "The distinction of 'main profession' in the entertainment industry has blurred. Those recognized as singers are also acknowledged in entertainment, and vice versa. Talented stars can excel in any field. Jang Nara, who won the acting award this year, has been celebrated as a 'multi-talented entertainer' since her debut."

Some believe that a passionate commitment to any activity is crucial. Lee Chan Won, upon receiving his entertainment award, expressed, "I've heard comments like 'singers should focus on singing, not broadcasting.' However, I've loved broadcasting and entertainment since I was young. I will never give up my path as a broadcaster and entertainer," emphasizing his dedication to both singing and entertainment.