The popular tvN drama Queen of Tears has not received any nominations for the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards. The absence of this record-breaking series from the awards list has sparked debate among fans and industry experts. The drama, which achieved a peak viewership rating of 24.9%, set a high bar during its airing from March 2024 to April 2024. The decision to overlook the series comes at a time when lead actor Kim Soo-Hyun is facing severe controversy following serious allegations related to his past relationship with actress Kim Sae-ron.
Award Snub Impact
The awards committee for the Baeksang Arts Awards accepts works produced between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025. Queen of Tears falls within this period, yet it has been left off the nominations list. This decision has raised questions about the influence of external controversies on the selection process. Fans and media outlets have pointed to the ongoing dispute involving Kim Soo-Hyun as a possible factor behind the snub.
The controversy began in February 2025 when Kim Sae-ron was found dead in a confirmed suicide. Following her death, claims emerged alleging that Kim Soo-Hyun had been in a romantic relationship with her during her teenage years. The actor later acknowledged a past relationship with Kim Sae-ron but maintained that it took place only after she reached legal age. During a press conference on March 31, 2025, Kim Soo-Hyun stated,
“I only had a past relationship with Kim Sae-ron when she was an adult, and I had no involvement in her tragic death.”
These remarks were also reported by CNN, reinforcing the actor’s stance. Despite his clear denial, the controversy has continued to affect his public image and career.
Controversy Details
The scandal has led to a significant fallout in the entertainment and advertising industries. Major brands have taken swift action in response to the controversy. Prada, DINTO, Jo Malone London, and CUCKOO have canceled their partnerships with Kim Soo-Hyun. In addition, companies such as Esteé Lauder, Eider, Homeplus, and Jeju Airlines have suspended promotional work featuring the actor.
Reports indicate that the ongoing controversy has not only impacted endorsements but also affected future projects. The Disney+ series Knock Off, which was to star Kim Soo-Hyun alongside Jo Bo-ah, has been shelved and postponed. There is speculation that the production could face penalty fees of up to $123 million if Disney+ decides to cancel the show completely. These industry moves have contributed to the growing pressure on Kim Soo-Hyun and his agency.
Legal and Industry Reactions
In response to the allegations and the subsequent spread of disputed information, Kim Soo-Hyun’s agency, Gold Medalist, has taken legal steps. The agency filed a criminal complaint against those involved in circulating private photos and false claims. They have accused Kim Sae-ron’s family, the CEO of the Garosero YouTube channel, and an unidentified person for their roles in the scandal. The lawsuit demands 12 billion KRW (approximately $8.2 million) in damages for the harm caused to the actor’s reputation and career.
The legal action underscores the seriousness with which Kim Soo-Hyun’s team is addressing the matter. Industry insiders suggest that the awards committee’s decision to exclude Queen of Tears could be influenced by the current climate of controversy. They believe that the ongoing dispute may have cast a shadow over the drama’s achievements, affecting its chances for nomination despite its strong performance during its broadcast.
Fan and Social Media Voices
Social media has seen a surge in comments from fans who are divided on the issue. Many express disappointment over the awards decision, while others feel that external issues should not impact artistic recognition. One Twitter user shared their view:
@BanhishaK: “The snub of Queen of Tears from the Baeksang nominations reflects how off-screen controversies can affect a project’s recognition. The drama deserves its accolades based on its performance.”
This sentiment resonates with many who believe that the artistic merit of a work should be evaluated independently of personal controversies.
The debate continues as fans call for a clear explanation from the awards committee. Industry experts note that similar controversies have influenced award nominations in the past, although each case has its own unique circumstances. The situation remains complex, with opinions split on whether the personal issues of an actor should impact the legacy of a successful drama.
Factual Overview
Queen of Tears broke records during its airing and gained high viewership on tvN. The series was expected to be a strong contender during the awards season. However, the timing of its broadcast and the overlap with the controversy surrounding Kim Soo-Hyun have raised important questions about the integrity of award selections. The ongoing legal battles and brand cancellations have added layers to the dispute, making it a topic of significant discussion in the entertainment community.
