Jang Do-yeon made headlines after winning the Best Variety Show female award at the 2024 MBC Entertainment Awards, which took place on January 28, 2025. The ceremony, initially set for December 29, 2024, was postponed following the tragic accident involving Jeju Air, leading to national mourning.
During the event held at the MBC Media Center in Seoul, Jang Do-yeon's acceptance speech captured the audience’s attention when she humbly requested the revival of her show, "Jjan Namja." This heartfelt plea not only highlighted her gratitude for the accolade but also reflected her emotional connection to the show, which aired its final episode last November.
"If higher-ups are watching, please reconsider the revival of 'Jjan Namja.' It was really fun," Jang Do-yeon expressed as she knelt on stage, illustrating her desire for the show’s return. The program, which showcased humorous takes on saving money, gained popularity among younger audiences, making her appeal all the more significant. Her powerful display of gratitude and vulnerability struck a chord with those present, prompting applause and cheers from the audience.
Park Na-rae, who also received the Best Reality Show female award alongside Jang Do-yeon, shared her joy, stating, "I'm thrilled to receive this award alongside my friend Do-yeon. We succeeded together." Their camaraderie was palpable, showcasing the bond formed over years of working together and striving for success. Park Na-rae expressed heartfelt thanks to her production teams and reflected on her emotional tie to the television industry, emphasizing the hard work behind the scenes.
The ceremony was marked not only by celebratory moments but also by its poignant backdrop, as it was rescheduled from the original dates due to the national tragedy. This provided a more somber reminder of the impact of such events on the entertainment industry and the collective mourning felt by all. Organizers ensured the night honored the contributions of entertainers who graced the MBC stage, celebrating resilience through the arts amid sorrow.
Jang Do-yeon, who rose to fame for her vibrant personality and comedic talents, has been active across several MBC shows, including her notable work on "Radio Star" and "Taerun: Turn of the Music Life." The popularity of "Jjan Namja," with its unique perspective on frugal living, kept viewers engaged, making its premature end surprising to many fans.
Reflecting on her acceptance speech, Jang expressed, "I have been on this path for 19 years; to be recognized at this level feels surreal. I used to be so shy, even struggling to press the bus bell. Now I am standing here, receiving praise and love from those who inspire my work. Life has truly been rewarding." Those who have followed her career might agree, as it serves as testimony to her growth from a reserved girl to one of the leading figures on television.
The fact the ceremony took place under such unique circumstances only added to its depth. Viewers reminisced about Jang's and Park's programs as they watched, wondering what the future held for upcoming MBC variety content. The call for "Jjan Namja"’s revival sparked interest and discussion across social media, with fans showing overwhelming support for the show’s potential return.
While many await possible announcements from MBC, Jang Do-yeon's fervent request demonstrates the power of audience voices and creators working collectively. The 2024 MBC Entertainment Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but highlighted the importance of community and connection through various shared experiences.
It remains to be seen whether "Jjan Namja" will make its much-anticipated comeback, but for now, both Jang Do-yeon and Park Na-rae have set the stage for future endeavors as they bask in their well-deserved recognition.