2024 Korea Drama Awards: Celebrating the Stars and Stories That Shined
Discover the winners of the 2024 Korea Drama Awards, celebrating Korean drama’s top stars and shows. See who took home prestigious titles at this exciting event.
The 2024 Korea Drama Awards honored the top performances in Korean television, from fan-voted favorites to new talent and top-tier dramas. Winners included Kim Soo Hyun, Kim Ji Won, and Lee Hanee, reflecting the continued rise of Korean entertainment on the global stage.
A Night to Remember at the 2024 Korea Drama Awards
The 15th edition of the Korea Drama Awards took center stage on Saturday, October 12, as part of the 2024 Korea Drama Festival in Jinju, Gyeongsangnam-do. This highly anticipated annual event is a celebration of the remarkable growth of the Korean drama industry, which continues to captivate audiences around the globe. Hosted at the Gyeongnam Culture and Art Centre, the awards ceremony saw a glittering gathering of actors, K-pop idols, and industry professionals come together to honor the best performances and productions of the year.
An Array of Stars and Stellar Performances
South Korean singer-songwriter Lee Sang Min, from the group Roo’ra, along with announcer Oh Jung Yeon, led the evening’s proceedings, bringing enthusiasm and charisma to the stage. The star-studded ceremony was not only a testament to the talent of the nominees but also an acknowledgment of the cultural impact that Korean dramas have achieved worldwide. As fans eagerly awaited the announcements, the atmosphere was electric, underscoring the significance of this annual gathering for both creators and viewers alike.
Before the live broadcast, several fan-voted awards were revealed, showcasing the power and passion of Korean drama enthusiasts. From September 8 to 28, fans had the chance to vote for their favorite stars, which helped to fuel the anticipation leading up to the awards night.
Fan-Voted Categories Celebrate Popular Favorites
The fan-voted categories included some of the most popular actors and performances from the past year. Byeon Woo Seok, the breakout star from Lovely Runner, secured the Hot Star Award for Best Male, while Queen of Tears actress Kim Ji Won claimed the Hot Star Award for Best Female. Their performances, along with their widespread fan support, made them undeniable favorites.
International favorite Kim Soo Hyun, also from Queen of Tears, earned the Global Star Award, reinforcing his stature as one of the most beloved figures in Korean entertainment. Additionally, the chemistry between Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won did not go unnoticed, as they were named Best Couple for their performances in the hit drama.
K-pop sensation ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Tae Rae won Best OST for the heartwarming song “More Than Enough,” a soundtrack that perfectly complemented Queen of Tears. Meanwhile, DKZ’s Jaechan took home the Hot Icon Award, further solidifying his standing as an up-and-coming star in the entertainment world.
Recognition for Emerging Talent and Scene Stealers
As the night continued, attention shifted toward honoring new talent. Kang Hye Won, who delivered a powerful performance in Boyhood, was recognized as Best New Actress, while her co-star Lee Si Woo took home the award for Best New Actor. Their fresh perspectives and captivating portrayals suggest a promising future in the drama industry.
A special highlight of the evening was the Scene Stealer Award, which went to Jung Young Joo for her unforgettable role in Lovely Runner. Her performance left a lasting impression, capturing the essence of dynamic, multifaceted acting.
Top Honors Go to Drama’s Leading Performers
The night’s top acting awards recognized the performances that truly stood out over the past year. Im Siwan, known for his emotional depth and versatility, was honored with the Top Excellence Award for his performance in Boyhood, while Jung Ryeo Won secured the same title for her work in The Midnight Romance in Hagwon. These awards underscored their exceptional abilities to bring complex characters to life.
Excellence Awards also went to Ji Seung Hyun for his compelling role in Korea-Khitan War and Go Min Si for her portrayal in Sweet Home 2. Both actors delivered stunning performances that captivated audiences and critics alike, highlighting their talent and dedication.
Villainy and Drama: Lee Yi Kyung and the Best Drama
Lee Yi Kyung’s spine-chilling portrayal of a villain in Marry My Husband earned him the Villain Award, a recognition of his ability to evoke fear and awe in equal measure. His performance was a masterclass in antagonistic roles, proving that even the most nefarious characters can leave a lasting impact on viewers.
The coveted Best Drama Award went to Queen of Tears, a production that blended emotional storytelling, top-tier performances, and stunning cinematography. The show’s success at the awards solidified its place as a standout drama of the year, capturing both critical acclaim and audience admiration.
The Grand Prize Honors a Remarkable Talent
The evening culminated with the announcement of the Grand Prize (Daesang), the most prestigious award of the night. This year, the honor went to Lee Hanee for her breathtaking performance in Knight Flower. Her portrayal was nothing short of spectacular, combining grace, strength, and vulnerability in a way that resonated deeply with audiences. Her win is a testament to her versatility as an actress and her undeniable contribution to the Korean drama landscape.
A Celebration of Korean Drama’s Global Impact
The 2024 Korea Drama Awards not only celebrated the talent within the industry but also highlighted the global influence of Korean dramas. With international fans voting and tuning in from around the world, the event demonstrated how Korean television continues to break barriers, both in terms of storytelling and cultural reach. As more announcements are expected throughout the Korea Drama Festival, this year’s awards set a new benchmark for excellence in the entertainment world.