The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, held on May 5, 2025, at COEX in Seoul, honored outstanding achievements in South Korean entertainment. The star-studded event, hosted by Park Bo Gum, Suzy, and Shin Dong Yup, aired live on JTBC, JTBC2, and JTBC4. The ceremony recognized excellence in film, broadcasting (formerly television), and theater, with winners selected by 60 industry experts. Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines led with four awards, while Harbin and Uprising dominated the film category.
Film Category Highlights
Harbin, a historical drama that drew 4.91 million viewers, won the Grand Prize and Best Picture. Its gripping storytelling and strong performances earned widespread praise.
“This award belongs to our entire team and the audience who connected with our story,” said a Harbin representative during the acceptance speech.
Jo Jung Suk took home Best Actor for his role in Pilot, portraying a charismatic yet flawed character with depth. Jeon Do Yeon won Best Actress for Revolver, showcasing her ability to carry intense emotional scenes.
Oh Seung Wook earned Best Director for Revolver, praised for his bold vision and tight narrative control. Yoo Jae Myung secured Best Supporting Actor for Land of Happiness, delivering a nuanced performance. Soo Hyun won Best Supporting Actress for A Normal Family, bringing authenticity to her role.
Uprising shone with three awards: Best Screenplay for Park Chan Wook and Shin Chul, Best Artistic Direction for Jo Young Wook, and Best New Actor for Jung Sung Il. The film’s innovative storytelling and visuals stood out.
Roh Yoon Seo won Best New Actress for Hear Me: Our Summer. She touched audiences by including sign language in her acceptance speech, emphasizing inclusivity. Oh Jung Min received Best New Director for House of the Seasons, marking a promising debut.
Broadcasting Category Stars
Culinary Class Wars, a Netflix variety show, claimed the Grand Prize in the broadcasting category. Its unique format and engaging content captivated viewers, beating strong contenders like When Life Gives You Tangerines.
“We’re thrilled to share this honor with our passionate contestants and viewers,” said a Culinary Class Wars producer.
When Life Gives You Tangerines was the night’s biggest winner, securing four awards: Best Drama, Best Screenplay for Im Sang Choon, Best Supporting Actor for Choi Dae Hoon, and Best Supporting Actress for Yeom Hye Ran. The romantic drama resonated with audiences for its heartfelt storytelling.
Joo Ji Hoon won Best Actor for The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, portraying a dedicated doctor with intensity. Kim Tae Ri earned Best Actress for Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born, capturing the spirit of a rising stage star.
Choo Young Woo took Best New Actor for The Tale of Lady Ok, while Chae Won Bin won Best New Actress for Doubt, both delivering breakout performances. Song Yeon Hwa received Best Director for Doubt, praised for her compelling direction.
In the variety segment, Punghyanggo, a YouTube show featuring Yoo Jae Suk, won Best Variety Show. Shin Dong Yup and Lee Soo Ji were named Best Male Entertainer and Best Female Entertainer, respectively, for their wit and charm. Special Hakjeon won Best Educational Program, recognized for its insightful content.
Jang Young Gyu earned Best Artistic Direction for the music in Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born, enhancing the drama’s emotional depth.
Theater Category Achievements
The theater category celebrated stage excellence. Toongso Whistles, produced by Seoul Metropolitan Theatre, won Best Play for its innovative storytelling. Gongnori Club received the Young Theater Award for Dried Pepper and Peach Scent Lipstick, showcasing fresh creativity.
Kwak Ji Sook won Best Actor for her powerful performance in The Jew of Malta, earning praise for her stage presence.
Special Awards
Byun Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon won the Prizm Popularity Award, voted by fans, for their roles in Lovely Runner. The Land of Morning Calm received the Gucci Impact Award for its socially resonant storytelling.
Park Chan Wook, co-winner of Best Screenplay, referenced the upcoming June 2025 presidential election, stressing the need for strong leadership. The ceremony also featured reunions, like Seo In Guk and Jeong Eun Ji from Reply 1997, adding nostalgia to the evening.
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