Jane Han is the North America editor for The Korea Times. Based in Seattle, she has covered business, culture and social issues across the United States for over 15 years. She previously worked at The Boston Globe.
Seo Kang-joon wins MBC Drama Awards as ceremony honors Lee Soon-jae
Actor Seo Kang-joon, winner of the top prize at the 2025 MBC Drama Awards, speaks after receiving the honor at the ceremony held at MBC’s public hall in Sangam-dong, western Seoul, Tuesday. Captured from MBC YouTube
By Jane Han
Actor Seo Kang-joon took home the top honor at the 2025 MBC Drama Awards, capping a night that also paid tribute to late veteran actor Lee Soon-jae and offered a first look at an upcoming high-profile series.
The ceremony, hosted by announcer Kim Sung-joo and actress Lee Sun-bin, was held Tuesday at MBC’s public hall in Sangam-dong, western Seoul. Seo received the grand prize and said he was taken aback by the weight of the honor.
“I feel overwhelmed receiving such a heavy award,” Seo said, adding that the recognition came at a particularly meaningful moment in his career.
Seo starred in “Undercover High School,” his first drama project since completing mandatory military service. Reflecting on the experience, he said returning to a drama set had been deeply moving.
“I missed the set so much,” he said. “When I look around, there are so many people who work harder and are more accomplished than I am. I often think about how easily I could be replaced.”
He added that he hopes to continue growing as an actor. “Until the day my acting career ends, I don’t want to be replaceable,” he said. “I’ll keep studying and pushing myself with greater urgency.”
A somber note ran through the ceremony as it honored the late Lee Soon-jae with a lifetime achievement award. Lee, who died last month, had been regarded as the industry’s oldest active actor until shortly before his death.
A tribute video highlighted his career, noting that he appeared in 38 MBC productions over the years. Clips from his signature works, including “What Is Love,” “Hur Jun” and “High Kick Through the Roof,” were shown to the audience.
The award was accepted on Lee’s behalf by his agency’s CEO, Lee Seung-hee, who recalled the actor’s dedication even in his final days.
“During his last project, he could not see with his eyes or hear with his ears,” Lee said. “Even then, he told us he did not want to cause inconvenience to fellow actors or staff.”
The evening also turned its attention to the future of MBC drama, as actors Byeon Woo-seok and IU appeared as presenters for the Drama of the Year award.
The pair, who star in the upcoming series “21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife,” drew cheers from the audience when a teaser for the drama was unveiled for the first time during the ceremony, featuring Byeon in both military uniform and traditional hanbok.