In a defining moment for When Life Gives You Tangerines, stars Yum Hye-ran and Choi Dae-hoon took home the Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor awards at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, held on May 5 at COEX Hall D in Gangnam, Seoul.
The emotionally charged ceremony, hosted by Shin Dong-yup, Suzy, and Park Bo-gum, celebrated the finest achievements across Korean television, film, and theater.
Yum Hye-ran’s Baeksang 2nd Win
Yum Hye-ran, who portrayed the fiercely loyal Jeon Gwang-rae, moved the audience with a heartfelt speech that brought fellow cast members IU and Kim Tae-yeon to tears.
“Thank you so much. My dear Ae-soons are here today — Ae-soon, your mom just won an award. And not a runner-up — the grand prize!” she said, drawing a standing ovation.
This marks Yum’s second Baeksang win, after seven consecutive nominations, solidifying her legacy as a powerhouse of emotional depth. She extended her gratitude to fellow nominees, including veterans like Kim Yong-rim, Na Moon-hee, and the late Park Myung-joo, and thanked writer Im Sang-chun and director Kim Won-seok for their vision and trust.
“It was a blessing to be part of this project. Ae-soon and Gwang-rae lived in my heart. To my daughter and mother — I love you,” she concluded.
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Choi Dae-hoon Finally Won Best Supporting Actor
Later in the evening, Choi Dae-hoon—recognized for his lovable portrayal of Mr. Hak—accepted his award with surprise and humility. “This feels like a hidden camera prank. I think this might be the best Children’s Day gift I’ve ever received,” he joked.
Reflecting on his journey, Choi said,
“I started acting to bring joy to others, but it’s me who ended up comforted by this work. I’ll continue, not for popularity, but to fulfill my responsibility as an actor.”
He ended with a wink to fans of his character: “Whenever you’re exhausted or having a hard time, just shout: ‘Hak-ssi!’”
The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards with Gucci celebrated content released between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, spotlighting Korean culture’s expanding global journey.
With its sincere storytelling and unforgettable performances, When Life Gives You Tangerines didn’t just earn critical acclaim — it captured hearts, both onscreen and off.