Yoo Jae-suk Wins 20th SBS Entertainment Award, Breaking the Jinx

Yoo Jae-suk has once again proven his dominance in the entertainment industry by winning the prestigious Grand Prize at the 2024 SBS Entertainment Awards, held on January 29 at the SBS Prism Tower in Mapo, Seoul. This marks his 20th win, breaking the so-called 'nine-year jinx' that often plagues entertainers.

The ceremony was hosted by Jeon Hyun-moo, Lee Hyun-yi, and Jang Do-yeon, with Yoo Jae-suk competing against notable nominees including Jeon Hyun-moo, Shin Dong-yup, Lee Sang-min, Seo Jang-hoon, Lee Hyun-yi, and Kim Jong-kook.

Last year, Yoo led the long-running variety show Running Man (런닝맨), which celebrated its 700th episode, solidifying its status as the longest-running variety program in South Korea. Additionally, he showcased his chemistry with actor Yoo Yeon-seok in the newly launched show, Thum Man Name (틈만 나면), which has already garnered significant viewership and is set to return for a new season in May.

During his acceptance speech, Yoo expressed gratitude to his family, including his parents, in-laws, and children, Ji-ho and Na-eun. He also thanked his supportive wife, Kyung-eun. Reflecting on his career, he noted, "I received my first Grand Prize in 2005, and today marks my 20th. I never imagined this day would come, and it holds great significance after 20 years. I am grateful for the support for Running Man and the love for Thum Man Name."

Yoo acknowledged the changing landscape of the entertainment industry, stating, "The environment for variety shows has become increasingly challenging, and the resources available to broadcasters are not as abundant as before. I want to sincerely thank all the staff and colleagues who have worked hard this year. We need laughter now more than ever, and I will continue to strive to bring joy in 2025."

With this latest accolade, Yoo Jae-suk has set a remarkable record of 20 Grand Prizes, including 12 consecutive wins. Despite facing a challenging year in 2023, where he did not win any awards from the three major broadcasting networks, he remained unfazed.

In a previous interview, when asked about the jinx, Yoo confidently stated, "I’m more worried about next week’s recording than any jinx. If it doesn’t happen this year, there’s always next year. I still have time, so don’t worry."

Yoo's journey continues to inspire, and fans eagerly anticipate the laughter he will bring in the future.