2025 Korea Drama Awards: All the Winners, Shocking Moments, and Rising Stars
The 16th Korea Drama Awards turned into a night of big wins, breakthrough moments, and emotional highlights as stars gathered in Jinju on October 11, 2025. From beloved veterans to rising talent, this year’s ceremony was packed with surprises, heartfelt speeches, and unforgettable red-carpet moments.
Held at the Gyeongnam Culture & Art Center, the awards honored the best of Korean television — with Park Bo Young, Byeon Woo Seok, and Chung Su Bin grabbing some of the biggest wins of the night.
Let’s break down everything that happened.
The Top Honors of the Night
Best Actor: Yook Sungjae
BTOB’s Yook Sungjae took home the Best Actor award for his powerful role in The Haunted Palace. While known for his music, this win solidified his place as a serious actor. His performance received widespread praise, and his emotional acceptance speech was one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
Best Actress: Park Bo Young
Park Bo Young impressed both fans and critics with her dual role in Our Unwritten Seoul, earning her the Best Actress award. This win continues her reign as one of Korea’s most consistent and beloved actresses.
Best Drama: Our Movie
The night’s most prestigious title of Best Drama went to Our Movie, a production praised for its emotional storytelling and strong performances.
Byeon Woo Seok’s Double Victory
It was a massive night for Byeon Woo Seok. Not only did he win the Hot Star Award (Male), but he also walked away with the Global Star Award. His growing popularity, both in Korea and internationally, made him a favorite heading into the ceremony — and he did not disappoint.
Byeon’s rising star power is no longer just about potential. He’s now officially a leading man with trophies to prove it.
Chung Su Bin’s Triple Win Shocks Everyone
Perhaps the most surprising and impressive showing of the night came from Chung Su Bin. She took home three awards:
- Hot Star Award (Female)
- Best Couple Award (with Hyeri for Friendly Rivalry)
- Best New Actress (shared with Hong Hwa Yeon)
Chung Su Bin’s breakout year has made her one to watch. Her genuine reactions and tearful thanks during her speeches captured the hearts of viewers and fellow actors alike.
Rising Stars Making Their Mark
Best New Actor
This year, two standout performances were recognized with the Best New Actor award:
- Choo Young Woo (The Tale of Lady Ok, Head Over Heels)
- Heo Nam Jun (When the Phone Rings, When the Stars Gossip)
Both actors have proven themselves with strong performances across multiple roles, signaling the start of exciting careers.
Best New Actress
In addition to Chung Su Bin, Hong Hwa Yeon also received the Best New Actress award for her performances in Buried Hearts, Tastefully Yours, and I Am a Running Mate.
These wins highlight the incredible new talent currently rising in the Korean drama world.
More Special Awards and Memorable Moments
- Scene-Stealer Awards:
- Female: Lee Ho Jung (Good Boy)
- Male: Lee Hae Young (Trigger, Buried Hearts)
- Villain Award:
- Oh Jung Se for his chilling role in Good Boy
- Best Couple Award:
- Hyeri and Chung Su Bin (Friendly Rivalry)
- Best OST:
- Young Tak for “Unknown Life” (For Eagle Brothers)
- Multi-tainer Award:
- Jaechan from DKZ, honored for his versatility across music and acting
Excellence in Acting Awards
These mid-tier acting awards recognized experienced performers who delivered standout roles this year.
- Excellence in Acting (Female):
- Kim Ji Yeon (also known as Bona from WJSN) for The Haunted Palace
- Excellence in Acting (Male):
- Lee Hyun Wook for his work in The Queen Who Crowns and Shark: The Storm
A Special Goodbye: Lifetime Achievement
The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to veteran actress Kim Yong Rim, recognizing her decades-long contribution to Korean entertainment. The room gave her a standing ovation as she took the stage, closing out the ceremony with emotion and grace.
What the 2025 Korea Drama Awards Tell Us
This year’s awards show was more than just trophies — it was a snapshot of where the K-drama industry is heading. It was a night where:
- K-pop idols like Yook Sungjae proved they can lead major dramas.
- Newcomers like Chung Su Bin and Byeon Woo Seok made the jump to stardom.
- Established legends like Park Bo Young reminded everyone why they’re still on top.
The 2025 Korea Drama Awards celebrated the past, present, and future of Korean television — and fans are already looking forward to next year.
