Baeksang’s 2 Million Views Speech: Winning Moment Goes Viral for Its Wit and Warmth
At the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, it wasn’t just the glitz, glamour, or surprise wins that captured the spotlight—but a humble, heartfelt speech by Choi Dae-hoon that has now become the most-viewed clip of the entire night.
Choi, who took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his performance in the Netflix series When Life Gives You Tangerines, delivered a speech that perfectly blended humor, sincerity, and gratitude. As of May 9, the speech video has racked up over 2.3 million views, making it the most-watched moment related to the Baeksang ceremony.
A Speech That Moved the Nation
Right after accepting his trophy, Choi began with a smile, “This all feels like a hidden camera prank. I sincerely thank the Baeksang committee for this precious and honorable award. Among all the Children’s Day gifts I’ve received, this might just be the best one. I must not have won many awards in my life—I think I was saving it up for this.”
He went on to thank director Kim Won-seok and writer Im Sang-chun for casting him in the role, admitting his initial nervousness: “I was thrilled but also worried—could I really do this role well? I was anxious about possibly dragging the team down. But in the end, it was a truly joyful journey.”
A Career Full of Meaning
Reflecting on his path, Choi said, “I started acting because I wanted to see people happy. But in doing so, I ended up receiving even greater comfort and fulfillment. From now on, I want to live by giving comfort to others—not worrying about who likes or dislikes me, but fulfilling my role with responsibility. I want to be an actor who spreads positive energy.”
He also melted hearts with a loving shout-out to his family: “To my family watching at home—I love you. To my wife, who believed in me and walked this path with me, happy 10th wedding anniversary. I hope this gift is good enough. And to our daughter—I love you.”
He concluded with a nod to his character’s popular catchphrase: “Whenever life feels hard and exhausting, just shout it out—Hak-ssi! Thank you!” The phrase drew thunderous applause from the audience, cementing the speech as a Baeksang highlight.
Netizens’ Reactions
Netizens flooded social media and community platforms with praise for Choi Dae-hoon’s heartfelt speech and inspiring journey:
- “I knew Hak-ssi ajusshi would make it big. Congratulations!”
- “His speech was so cool and touching.”
- “That final line brought tears to my eyes.”
- “He’s the kind of actor who makes you appreciate the profession.”
- “His scenes in When Life Gives You Tangerines were unforgettable.”
- “I’ve had a feeling since The Host that he’d become a major actor.”
Having debuted in 2002, Choi Dae-hoon’s two-decade journey through supporting roles and critically acclaimed dramas has found its moment—and fans couldn’t be more thrilled to see an actor of his depth finally receive his due. With When Life Gives You Tangerines earning him a career-defining role as Boo Sang-gil, aka “Hak-ssi,” Choi’s story is a reminder that some of the most powerful performances—and speeches—come from those who’ve waited patiently for their spotlight.