On the evening of May 8, 2026, the spotlight at Seoul’s COEX D Hall shone brightly on one man: Lee Sung-min. The veteran actor, known for his nuanced performances and dignified presence, graced the red carpet at the 62nd Baeksang Arts Awards, an event that has become a staple in South Korea’s arts and entertainment calendar. But this year, Lee was not just another star among many—he was the face of triumph, making history in a way few could have predicted.
As the ceremony unfolded in Gangnam-gu, anticipation buzzed through the air. Lee Sung-min, whose career has spanned nearly four decades, was nominated for his role in the film Can’t Help It. When his name was finally called as the winner of the Best Supporting Actor award in film, the hall erupted in applause. According to Top Star News, the moment was electric, with “a warm round of applause” sweeping the venue, a testament to the respect and admiration Lee commands among peers and audiences alike.
This victory marked a significant milestone: Lee’s fourth Baeksang Arts Award in his 39-year acting journey. He had previously taken home two TV Best Actor awards for his performances in Misaeng and Reborn Rich, and a film Best Actor award for The Spy Gone North. Now, with this latest accolade, Lee has become a four-time Baeksang winner—a record that cements his status as a true titan of Korean cinema and television.
At the heart of Lee’s triumph was his portrayal of Goo Beom-mo in Can’t Help It, a veteran of the paper industry facing the harsh realities of a rapidly changing world. Struggling to find his footing in an era that prizes digital over analog, Goo Beom-mo dreams of reemployment and clings to the values of his generation. Lee’s performance, praised by critics for its realism and emotional depth, brought to life the generational limits and professional pride of a man caught between past and present. According to Khan, he “realistically depicted generational limits and professional pride,” drawing viewers into the character’s internal conflict and stubborn resilience.
On stage, Lee’s acceptance speech was as memorable as his win. He began by expressing gratitude to director Park Chan-wook, saying, “I had many new experiences working with Director Park Chan-wook, even participating in promotional activities. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend working with him.” His witty and heartfelt words, as reported by Khan and Top Star News, set a lighthearted tone and hinted at the camaraderie behind the scenes. Lee also took a moment to thank his fellow actors, including Yeom Hye-ran and Park Hee-soon, demonstrating once again the humility and warmth that have endeared him to so many in the industry.
Lee’s journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. Debuting nearly forty years ago, he has weathered the shifting tides of Korean entertainment, continually reinventing himself and taking on roles that challenge both himself and the audience. His ability to adapt and his willingness to embrace change have not gone unnoticed. In fact, just recently, Lee was named the most influential male actor in the 2026 Brand Customer Loyalty Awards, a recognition that speaks to his enduring popularity and the trust he inspires in viewers. As Khan put it, his latest Baeksang win “once again proved the ‘brand power’ of actor Lee Sung-min.”
The accolades, however, are not merely a reflection of past achievements. According to a representative from his agency, HB Entertainment, Lee’s continued success is a result of “a fearless spirit of challenge,” and there’s every indication that his momentum will carry forward. The agency noted that Lee is set to star in two highly anticipated projects: the Netflix series True Education and the JTBC drama God’s Pearl. Both are expected to showcase his versatility and further solidify his reputation as an “irreplaceable actor.”
Lee’s appearance at the Baeksang Awards was as striking as his performance. Photos captured by ET News and Hankyung show him exuding a calm confidence and dignified charisma on the red carpet—an image that perfectly matches his on-screen persona. Dressed impeccably and greeting fans and photographers with poise, he seemed every bit the seasoned professional, comfortable in the glow of admiration yet grounded in humility. Hankyung described his presence as “dignified charisma,” a phrase that seems to encapsulate the essence of Lee Sung-min both on and off the screen.
The significance of his latest award extends beyond personal achievement. The Baeksang Arts Awards, often referred to as the “Korean Golden Globes,” are highly respected for their recognition of artistic merit and public appeal. Winning at Baeksang is no small feat, and for Lee, it is an affirmation of both his artistry and his widespread influence. As Khan noted, Lee’s ability to capture both critical acclaim and public adoration positions him as a “truly irreplaceable actor.”
Lee’s portrayal of Goo Beom-mo is especially resonant in today’s rapidly evolving society, where questions of relevance, adaptation, and generational change are front and center. His character’s struggle to remain true to analog values in a digital world mirrors the challenges faced by many in real life. It’s no wonder that critics and audiences alike have responded so strongly to his performance, finding in it a reflection of their own hopes, fears, and aspirations.
Looking ahead, fans and industry insiders are eager to see what Lee Sung-min will tackle next. With the upcoming releases of True Education and God’s Pearl, there’s a sense that his best work may still be ahead. The excitement is palpable, and expectations are high—but if his recent track record is any indication, Lee is more than ready to rise to the occasion.
In the end, Lee Sung-min’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, adaptability, and genuine talent. As he stood on the Baeksang stage, trophy in hand and gratitude in his heart, it was clear that his story is far from over. The applause that filled COEX D Hall was not just for a single performance, but for a lifetime of dedication to the craft—and for the promise of many more unforgettable moments to come.