Scene Stealers Without the Statues: IU, Hyeri, Hyun Bin and Jung Hae-in at Baeksang 2025
The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, held on May 5 at COEX Hall D in Gangnam, brought together Korea’s biggest entertainment stars across film, television, and theater.
While the night celebrated well-deserved victories, several high-profile nominees left the ceremony without trophies, sparking discussions about notable “snubs” despite critical praise and widespread fan support.
Hyeri: A Stellar Year, But No Award
Hyeri, nominated for Best New Actress in Film for her energetic role in Victory, captivated audiences with her portrayal of a high school cheerleader and hip-hop dancer, especially praised for her mastery of the Gyeongsang dialect. She also gained attention for her complex performance as Yoo Jae-yi in Friendly Rivalry.
Despite the momentum, the award ultimately went to Roh Yoon-seo for Hear Me: Our Summer, leaving Hyeri with growing acclaim but no Baeksang win this year.
Jung Hae-in: Villainous Turn, Still Overlooked
Known for his softer roles, Jung Hae-in made a bold transformation in I, the Executioner, playing his first villain, Park Sun-woo. His intense “gaze acting” drew critical attention, earning him accolades including Best Supporting Actor at the Blue Dragon Film Awards and the title of “Actor of the Year” from viewers.
However, at Baeksang, the honor went to Yoo Jae-myung (Land of Happiness), whose politically charged role as a manipulative military officer was praised for historical resonance.
IU and Park Bo-gum: Triumphs, But Not for Leads
Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines was a major force at this year’s awards, winning Best Drama, Best Screenplay, and both Supporting Actor/Actress categories. Still, its beloved leads IU and Park Bo-gum were passed over in the acting categories, with Joo Ji-hoon (The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call) and Kim Tae-ri (Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born) taking home the top honors.
Despite this, IU remained the emotional center of the ceremony, supporting her castmates and even helping child co-star Kim Tae-yeon prepare for the event, further endearing her to fans.
Hyun Bin: Deep Performance, No Recognition
Hyun Bin’s portrayal of independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun in Harbin was emotionally intense, even moving him to tears during filming. His performance, praised by co-stars and wife Son Ye-jin, marked a career milestone.
Though he was nominated for Best Actor in Film, the trophy went to Jo Jung-suk (Pilot). Still, Harbin won Best Film and took home the Grand Prize in Film, awarded to cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo, affirming the project’s artistic significance.
While this year’s Baeksang Awards honored a broad spectrum of talent, some of Korea’s most acclaimed performers walked away without wins. Yet, their nominated works — and personal contributions to the industry — left an undeniable mark, ensuring their place in the hearts of fans and in the larger narrative of Korean entertainment in 2025.
You can read the full list of this year’s Baeksang winners here.