Jeon Hyun-moo Wins Grand Prize At 2024 MBC Entertainment Awards For Third Time
The glitz and glamour of the entertainment world were on full display at the 2024 MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards, held on January 28 at the MBC Media Center in Sangam-dong, Seoul. The awards, which celebrate the best performances and productions on MBC over the past year, were postponed from their original date of December 29 due to the Jeju Air crash.
This year’s ceremony reached new heights as entertainer Jeon Hyun-moo was awarded the coveted Grand Prize for the third time, cementing his status within the industry. Jeon, known for his remarkable skill as the host of various shows, particularly "I Live Alone" and "Omniscient Interfering View," received accolades for his unwavering dedication to entertaining his audience. Upon accepting the award, he expressed his humble gratitude, stating, "Born as an only son without a special talent or hobby, who only just studied, the only thing I enjoyed was entertainment and variety shows." His heartfelt words truly encapsulated his personal connection with his craft.
Jeon's previous wins include the Grand Prize awarded to him in 2017 and again in 2022. Reflecting on his achievements, he said, "I always thought I wanted to be in a little square box and make people, who are as lonely as I was, happy." His sincerity was palpable as he reiterated his desire to provide joy through entertainment, saying, "I will always try to give you something to smile about, even after it ends."
Another highlight of the evening was the award for Entertainment Program of the Year, which went to "I Live Alone," showcasing its consistent popularity among viewers. The evening’s festivities also honored various entertainers, including Kim Dae-ho, Kian84, and Yu Jae-seok, who were all recognized as Entertainers of the Year alongside Jeon.
The Excellence Award was presented to Kim and Jang Do-youn for variety shows, as well as Kian84 and Park Na-rae for reality shows. Meanwhile, the Excellence Award for radio shows was awarded to Kim Eana, reflecting the diverse talent showcased on MBC.
During the ceremony, eternal favorites were reminisced, along with the MBC legacy, which has shaped the Korean entertainment industry. Highlights included the engaging performances from hosts Jeon Hyun-moo, Yoon Eun-hye, and Lee Jang-woo, who kept the audience entertained throughout the event. Their presence reinforced the strong bond of camaraderie among the entertainers.
Jeon Hyun-moo also shared some light moments during the awards ceremony, pulling insights from modern societal habits. He noted how contemporary audiences gravitate toward more stimulating content online, often neglecting traditional television. "Modern society is really like a dopamine heaven," he remarked, adding, "I’ll try to offer broadcasts which resonate more like vitamins than mere stimuli." His commitment to providing wholesome entertainment is evident, echoing his longtime aspiration of connecting with his audience.
Kim Dae-ho, who received emotional tributes for his hard work throughout the past year and his rise through the ranks of MBC, also shared his gratitude. “From being the new kid to receiving this top award, my colleagues have been the best craftsmen. Their support helped shape who I am today,” he said, conveying the collective effort behind the scenes.
While the awards reflected the shining stars of MBC, the ceremony also stirred controversy when the absence of recognition for the long-running and beloved "Infinite Challenge" was noted. Many fans and industry insiders expressed disappointment, feeling it deserved acknowledgment during the network’s 30th-anniversary celebration.
Despite these contentions, the awards offered heartfelt moments. Female newcomer Choi Kang-hee won the Best New Female Actor Award for her role on "Point of Omniscient Intervention," visibly moved as she expressed gratitude to her team and encouraged budding talents to keep pursuing their dreams. “I hope you don’t give up and keep standing strong,” she inspired the audience, capturing the heart of the evening.
The 2024 MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards were not solely about acknowledging talents and productions; they also served as reminders of the collaborative efforts behind the scenes, celebrating achievements not just by individuals but by the collective spirit of the MBC family. Viewers were treated to emotional stories, laughter, and reflections on the past, making the annual event one filled with joy, nostalgia, and hope for the future of entertainment.
With Jeon Hyun-moo’s inspiring acceptance speech, the legacy of MBC continues to thrive, pushing boundaries and setting standards for broadcasting excellence. This evening of celebration marked another chapter for the network, highlighting the transformative power of entertainment and its ability to connect people leaving them with smiles and warmth.