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| Film producer Miky Lee, left, holds her 2022 International Emmy Directorate Award while standing with South Korean actor Song Joong-ki in the press room at the 2022 International Emmy Awards in New York, Nov. 21. EPA-Yonhap |
By Kwak Yeon-soo
KBS drama "The King's Affection" made history as the first Korean series to win the Best Telenovela award at the 50th International Emmy, which took place at the New York Hilton Midtown Hotel, Monday (local time).
Executive producer Yoon Jae-hyuk accepted the award for the series, which stars Park Eun-bin and Rowoon. It revolves around a princess pretending to be a prince in the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910).
"We are delighted to have won the International Emmy Award for the first time as Korean series, and we believe the success of 'The King's Affection' recognizes the potential of K-dramas in general. We feel a great sense of responsibility and we will do our best so that KBS dramas can play a key role in K-content's popularity," a KBS official said.
CJ Group's vice chairperson Miky Lee received the International Emmy Directorate Award, presented by actor Song Joong-ki. Song, the star of "Descendants of the Sun," "Vincenzo" and "Reborn Rich", gave a detailed introduction of the entertainment mogul.
"I wouldn't be standing here today if it wasn't for this unique and passionate soul, Miky Lee. She has been at the center of Korea's rise in the global entertainment scene from the very beginning. Miky, I'm so proud of you. Congratulations," Song said.
He continued: "Miky Lee helped open Korea's first movie multiplex in 1998 allowing for local Korean content to grow along together with Hollywood movies. She then paved the way for Korean TV series around the world. With her instinct for recognizing talent, she continues to support our artists and our industry. Acting as our ambassador, she not only focused on spreading great Korean storytelling but also our beloved culture."
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| The executive producer of "The King's Affection" Yoon Jae-hyeok, left, and An Chang-hyun, CEO of Arc Media pose with the Telenovela Award at the 50th International Emmy Awards in New York, Nov. 21. Reuters-Yonhap |
On accepting her award, Lee thanked Song and said she hopes to continue to bridge many talented people and their dreams.
"Thank you for your kind words, Joong-ki. You are an amazing actor and role model to so many aspiring actors globally. Once a business student at a top university in Korea, Joong-ki has defied all expectations to follow his dreams. Talent of his caliber is the reason Korean content like 'Vincenzo,' 'Descendants of the Sun' and 'Space Sweeper' have spread to the international stage," Lee said.
She continued: "I want to congratulate the International Emmy of its 50th anniversary. I am truly honored to receive this award tonight"
Actor Lee Sun-kyun was nominated for a Best Actor award for his performance in Apple TV's first original Korean drama "Dr. Brain," but did not win the award. In the series, he plays a scientist who attempted to communicate with the brains of the dead. The Best Actor award went to Dougray Scott in Irvine Welsh's "Crime."
Actor-singer Jung Ji-hoon, also known as Rain, and actor Yim Si-wan, also attended the ceremony.
Bestowed by the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the International Emmys recognizes excellence in global television programs initially produced and aired outside the U.S. A total of 23 countries and 60 nominees were represented in 15 different categories during this year's ceremony.
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