Who Will Take Home the Grand Prize at the 2024 KBS Entertainment Awards?

The 2024 KBS Entertainment Awards will take place on December 21 at the KBS New Hall in Yeouido, Seoul, hosted by actor Lee Joon, singer Lee Young-ji, and Lee Chan-won. This year's ceremony aims to unify all entertainers across genders, ages, and generations, showcasing popular programs like the long-running '1 Night 2 Days' (1박2일) and the new web variety show 'Nopo Gi' (노포기).

The nominees for the prestigious Grand Prize include Yoo Jae-suk, Jeon Hyun-moo, Ryu Soo-young, Lee Chan-won, and Kim Jong-min. Yoo Jae-suk, returning after three years as the 'Nation's MC', Jeon Hyun-moo, who consistently garners high ratings and buzz across various shows, Lee Chan-won, emerging as a next-generation star, Ryu Soo-young, who wields significant influence despite fewer appearances, and the ever-reliable Kim Jong-min, a perennial nominee. Any of these contenders could justifiably win the award.

Jeon Hyun-moo is considered a strong candidate, currently hosting 'Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears' (사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀), where he has maintained a stable presence for five years. His ability to react to videos and create chemistry with bosses has contributed to the show's impressive record of 134 consecutive weeks as the top-rated program in its time slot across all channels.

Additionally, Jeon Hyun-moo's role as a caster for the weightlifting events at the 33rd Paris Olympics has further solidified his position. His efforts to promote lesser-known sports led other networks to scramble for live broadcasts, showcasing his formidable presence. He also achieved a peak viewership rating of 18.5% during the KBS Olympic coverage.

Notably, Jeon Hyun-moo's background as a KBS talent adds to his appeal. After overcoming a period of inactivity as a freelancer, he has reestablished himself and is now a regular nominee for the Grand Prize, with many believing that the stars have aligned for him to win.

While Jeon Hyun-moo makes a strong case with his impactful projects, Lee Chan-won is competing with sheer volume, appearing in KBS's flagship shows like 'Immortal Songs' (불후의 명곡) and 'Newly Released Menu' (신상출시 편스토랑), as well as participating in 'High-End Salt Bug' (하이엔드 소금쟁이) and 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' (셀럽병사의 비밀). His special show during the Chuseok holiday, 'Chuseok Special Show: Lee Chan-won's Gift', also added to his prominence.

Lee Chan-won is known for his stable hosting and extensive knowledge, earning him the nickname 'Chan Wiki' (찬또위키). He has proven his ability to shine alongside various co-hosts, demonstrating qualities that position him as a future MC star.

Yoo Jae-suk's return to KBS after three years is particularly noteworthy. Having risen to fame from the first College Comedy Festival in 1991, he has won the Grand Prize twice at KBS. Although he had not been nominated since 'Comeback Home', he is back in the running thanks to his role in 'Synchro Yoo' (싱크로유), a show that combines elements of AI and live performances, providing fresh entertainment and challenges.

Ryu Soo-young and Kim Jong-min also bring their strengths to the table, with Ryu Soo-young making a name for himself as a variety star on 'Newly Released Menu' and Kim Jong-min maintaining his role on '1 Night 2 Days' for 17 years, stepping up as the eldest member after the departure of fellow cast member Yeon Jung-hoon.

As the anticipation builds for the 2024 KBS Entertainment Awards, it remains to be seen who will take the stage to deliver their acceptance speech. The excitement is palpable as fans await the announcement of the winner.