Lee Soon-jae poses for a photo during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, on Dec. 31. (KBS)
Lee Soon-jae poses for a photo during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, on Dec. 31. (KBS)

Lee Soon-jae, a veteran actor and legendary figure in Korean broadcasting history whose career spans 69 years, claimed the grand prize at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards held Saturday night.

KBS traditionally hosts the awards on Dec. 31 to celebrate excellence in its annual programming. However, due to the Jeju Air tragedy at Muan International Airport on Dec. 29, this year’s ceremony was recorded on New Year’s Eve and broadcast later.

Lee received the grand prize for his role as lead character Soon-jae in "Dog Knows Everything," a comedy series that aired from Sept. 25 to Oct. 31. In the show, Lee played an actor with the unique ability to communicate with dogs, solving mysteries on Geoje Island alongside his canine companion.

Escorted to the stage by actors Kim Yong-gun and Choi Soo-jong, Lee accepted the trophy from KBS President Park Jang-bum. His appearance at the awards marked his first return to the public eye following a three-month break due to health issues.

Holding the microphone, Lee remarked, "Living long enough, there comes a day like this."

During his acceptance speech, Lee raised awareness to the tradition of excluding actors over 60 from performance-based awards. "The grand prize can be given multiple times if deserved. However, in our country, once you’re over 60, all you get is a lifetime achievement award. Even after 60, if you excel, you should be awarded based on merit — not with a lifetime achievement award. Acting should be evaluated for its artistry, not popularity or other factors," he said.

Kim Jung-hyun speaks after accepting the top excellence award during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, on Dec. 31. (KBS)
Kim Jung-hyun speaks after accepting the top excellence award during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, on Dec. 31. (KBS)

The ceremony also drew attention for a moment of controversy involving actor Kim Jung-hyun of "Iron Family," who apologized for past actions reportedly linked to his relationship with actor Seo Ye-ji six years ago. Kim drew criticism at the time for behaviour that appeared rude and dismissive, especially towards Seohyun. In 2019, reports surfaced that Seo had pressured Kim into avoiding physical contact with female actors, including Kim's co-star Seohyun.

While accepting the top excellence award, Kim reflected, "Earlier in my career, I hurt many people and caused discomfort with actions I deeply regret. I sincerely apologize from this place." With a deep 90-degree bow, he added, "I don’t believe an apology ends things, nor do I expect forgiveness."

However, his failure to explicitly mention Seohyun, who co-hosted the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, sparked mixed reactions from viewers.

Lee Young-ae speaks during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, Dec. 31. (KBS)
Lee Young-ae speaks during the KBS Drama Awards held in Yeouido, Seoul, Dec. 31. (KBS)

A surprise highlight of the night was the appearance of acclaimed actress Lee Young-ae as the presenter of the popularity award.

Opening her speech, she said, "There is a reason I am standing here after such a long time." She announced her upcoming 2025 drama "Eunsoo's Good Day," where she portrays Kang Eun-soo, a housewife who becomes entangled in a dangerous deal to protect her family. "Many people are working hard on this project. Please show your support," she added.

Reflecting on her own experience, Lee noted, "I, too, have received the KBS popularity award. Every award is precious, but the popularity award holds special meaning because it represents the audience’s love."