In a dazzling night that marked the culmination of 2025, actor Lee Je-hoon shone brightly at the SBS Acting Awards, winning the coveted Grand Prize. The awards ceremony, held on December 31 at the SBS Prism Tower in Mapo, Seoul, celebrated outstanding achievements in television dramas, notably highlighting 'Taxi Driver 3.' Lee Je-hoon's heartfelt acceptance speech resonated with viewers and fans, showcasing the deep connection between performers and their audiences.
Lee Je-hoon Claims the Grand Prize
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Lee Je-hoon's well-deserved recognition as the Grand Prize winner for his powerful portrayal in 'Taxi Driver 3'. Despite last year's shared award with Kim Tae-ri, this year he stood alone, basking in the glory of his achievement. The production crew, fellow actors, and staff who have contributed to the series gathered alongside him, sharing in the celebration of their hard work and dedication.
Reflecting on the challenges and hurdles of his acting journey, Lee humbly acknowledged that the art of acting often feels overwhelming. He expressed gratitude towards his supporters, saying, "Whenever I think I'm at my limit in acting, I find strength from my fans. They are the reason I continue to endure and perform, for that, I thank you all." His sincere emotions drew tears, making his acceptance moment all the more poignant.
As he shared his thoughts on 'Taxi Driver 3' reaching this milestone after over five years, Lee credited the audience's unwavering love and support, stating, "The heartfelt engagement from viewers has allowed us to tell this unbelievable story, blending various genres into a single narrative. Thank you for this endless affection.” This deep connection with the audience reflects the essence of storytelling, where artists can touch the hearts of many.
Highlighting Outstanding Performances
Beyond Lee Je-hoon, the SBS Acting Awards celebrated the remarkable talents of numerous actors and dramas that have captivated audiences over the year. The Director's Award went to Yoon Kyung-sang for his impressive comedic performance in 'Try: We Become an Miracle', reinforcing the impact of strong, versatile acting in the television landscape.
The award for Best Actor in the Mini-Series genres was shared among exceptional talents, including Lee Jun-hyuk and Han Ji-min for their roles in 'My Perfect Secretary', while Choi Woo-shik and Jung So-min triumphed in the romantic comedy category with 'Cosmic Mary'. Their performances exemplified the depth and diversity of characters portrayed on screen, each bringing something unique to the table.
Additionally, in the action genre, Park Hyung-sik and Ko Hyun-jung captured accolades for their roles in 'Treasure Island' and 'Mantis: The Killers' Exit', respectively. This year’s winners truly showcased the wide range of storytelling and character depth, with viewers drawn into the intense narratives presented throughout the season.
As awards were handed out, a prominent theme emerged: the celebration of collective efforts. Many winners expressed their gratitude towards their co-stars and crews, emphasizing that the success of a project is never a solo endeavour but a collective triumph of teamwork and synergy.
Celebrating New Talent and Future Endeavors
A particularly heartwarming moment was the recognition of new talents with the Rookie Acting Award, which was shared among up-and-coming stars such as Kim Dan, Kim Mu-jun, and Cha Woo-min, highlighting the importance of nurturing fresh perspectives in the industry. Each recipient expressed excitement about their journeys and the vibrant opportunities that lie ahead, marking the night's spirit of hope and creativity.
The Best Couple Award went to Jang Ki-yong and Ahn Eun-jin from 'Kiss is Just a Mistake!', a testament to their on-screen chemistry that captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. Their win resonated with fans who eagerly supported their sugary romance, further solidifying the essence of love stories in the hearts of audiences.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the presence of celebrated performances and the unveiling of new dramas slated for 2026 signified exciting times ahead for SBS. A total of eight new drama teasers, including titles with prominent actors such as Kim Hye-yoon and So Ji-sub, promise to keep viewers engaged and entertained in the upcoming year.
In conclusion, the 2025 SBS Acting Awards celebrated both established and emerging talents, with Lee Je-hoon taking center stage as a symbol of dedication and excellence. The event served as a reminder of the vital connection between artists and audiences, fostering a community supported by shared stories and experiences. To stay updated on future awards and the dynamic dramas on the horizon, fans are encouraged to follow SBS for the latest news and announcements.