The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, held on May 5, 2025, showcased the best of South Korean television and film, highlighting intense competition among top talents in the industry. This year, the prestigious Grand Prize in the television category went to the popular cooking show "Black and White Rhapsody: Culinary Competition," a significant win that stirred discussions among fans and critics alike.
IU, a beloved star known for her roles in dramas like "My Mister" and "Broker," was nominated for Best Actress for her performance in "Call My Agent." However, she ultimately lost to Kim Tae-ri, who won for her role in "Jeong Nyeon." This outcome surprised many, especially considering the strong performances by both actresses.
In the first round of voting for the Grand Prize, there were seven nominees, including "Black and White Rhapsody: Culinary Competition," the writer Lin Hengtai of "Call My Agent," the director Kim Wonseok of the same series, IU, Kim Tae-ri, and Ryu Seung-ryong. After intense discussions, the field narrowed down to just three contenders: "Black and White Rhapsody," IU, and Kim Wonseok. Ultimately, "Black and White Rhapsody" secured the award with three votes from the eight-member jury.
Fans of IU expressed their disappointment, especially since she had reportedly won the first round of voting against Kim Tae-ri but did not secure the acting award. Some observers noted the peculiarities of the voting process, with one fan humorously questioning, "Were the remaining five votes split between IU and the director?" This sparked debates online about the fairness and transparency of the voting system, with many feeling that IU's performance deserved recognition.
Meanwhile, the red carpet event preceding the awards was a spectacle in itself, with Song Hye-kyo stealing the spotlight. The 43-year-old actress donned a sophisticated dark gray sleeveless dress from the Korean designer brand avouavou, complemented by her chic short hair and elegant Chaumet jewelry. Her understated yet striking appearance was a departure from the more traditional glamorous looks often seen at such events.
In an interview last year, Song Hye-kyo mentioned that after entering her 40s, she shifted her focus from striving for youthfulness to embracing the wisdom and elegance that come with age. She stated, "I won’t worry about getting older, nor will I try to maintain a youthful appearance. I believe that simple makeup and outfits can better showcase the charm of this age." Her philosophy clearly resonated on the red carpet, where she was hailed as the most beautiful attendee.
The awards ceremony also revealed the closely contested battle for the Best Actor award. Joo Ji-hoon claimed the title with five votes, narrowly defeating Park Bo-gum, who received three votes. Judge Kim So-young remarked on Joo Ji-hoon’s ability to drive the narrative of his series, "Trauma Center," highlighting the powerful connection between actor and role.
Kim Tae-ri's win for Best Actress was equally noteworthy. She garnered six votes, with judges praising her exceptional performance in "Jeong Nyeon." Judge Zheng De-hyun noted, "The original novel was solid, but Kim Tae-ri was able to fill in the gaps in the adaptation, making her an indispensable part of the project." This marked a triumphant return for Kim Tae-ri, who had previously faced disappointment in not being nominated for her role in "Evil Spirit."
IU's journey in acting has been remarkable, transitioning from a successful music career to becoming a respected actress. She debuted in 2008 at the age of 15 and has since captivated audiences with her performances. Despite not winning the Best Actress award this year, her nominations and performances in acclaimed dramas like "My Mister," "Hotel Del Luna," and "Call My Agent" have solidified her status in the industry.
Adding to the intrigue surrounding the awards was music producer Yoon Jong-shin's revelation that he once advised IU against pursuing acting, fearing it would detract from her singing career. Reflecting on this advice, he expressed regret, stating, "I’ve apologized to her several times. At that time, I selfishly thought, ‘I don’t want the gem of the music scene to be taken by the acting world.’" He acknowledged that IU’s acting talent has flourished, particularly in her recent roles, and he now views her decision to act as a fortunate turn of fate.
The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards also highlighted a broader trend in the industry. The Grand Prize for the TV broadcasting category being awarded to a variety show marks a shift in recognition. "Black and White Rhapsody" has not only captured the audience's attention but has also significantly impacted the culinary scene across Asia. The show's participants' restaurants continue to attract international visitors, and a second season is already in the planning stages.
This year's awards ceremony was not without its controversies, as discussions about the nominees and winners sparked debates among fans and industry insiders. Critics and supporters alike engaged in conversations about the criteria for awards and the balance between artistic merit and public appeal. As the Baeksang Arts Awards navigates these challenges, the anticipation for next year’s ceremony grows, with hopes for even more outstanding performances and productions to be recognized.
In conclusion, the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards celebrated the rich tapestry of talent in South Korea's entertainment industry, showcasing both established stars and rising talents. While IU's fans may feel a sense of disappointment, her journey continues to inspire many, proving that recognition comes in many forms, and her contributions to both music and acting will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.
