All Eyes on Seoul: 2025’s Top Drama Talent Takes the Stage
The 20th annual Seoul Drama Awards kicks off today (October 2) at 5 PM KST in KBS Hall, promising a dazzling night of star power, performances, and cross-border Hallyu magic. With names like IU, Ju Ji-hoon, and Japanese heartthrob Kentaro Sakaguchi gracing the stage, the red carpet is practically on fire.
IU and Ju Ji-hoon Take Top Honors
This year’s MVPs? Look no further than Ju Ji-hoon and IU, who swept both Best Drama and Best Actor/Actress in the K-drama category. Ju Ji-hoon earned global acclaim for his haunting performance in Trauma Code, which dominated Netflix’s non-English TV rankings. Beside him will be director Lee Doyoon, sharing in the gold.
IU, never one to settle for just a single standout role, impressed critics and fans alike in Take Care, where she flawlessly pulled off a dual role—winning not just awards, but also the internet’s collective heart.
“Pachinko” and International Hits Stand Tall
Kim Min-ha nabs Best Actress in the International Competition section for her nuanced performance as Sunja in Pachinko Season 2. The drama also grabbed Best Series. Meanwhile, acclaimed Turkish director Umut Aral of The Good & The Bad and Korea’s Na Ji-hyun (of the gripping short drama My Son Died) are also among those recognized this year.
Asian Stars Reunite Under One Roof
Beyond Korea, the Seoul Drama Awards 2025 is a full-blown Asian drama explosion. Japan’s Kentaro Sakaguchi, Thailand’s rising darling Rachanun Mahawan, the Philippines’ superstar Daniel Padilla, and Malaysia’s new favorite Anna Jobling will all appear, reflecting the growing global love for Asian storytelling.
Sizzle and Sentiment: Unforgettable Chemistries
What’s an award show without a little ke-mi—that magical chemistry K-drama fans live for? Hosting duties go to comedian Jang Do-yeon and 2PM’s Taecyeon. Jang already has fans buzzing about a potential reunion spark with Kentaro Sakaguchi, thanks to their swoon-worthy moment on Jangdobalibari.
Also joining the night as a presenter is Yeom Hye-ran, who played IU’s mom in Take Care. Expect tears, smiles, and maybe a recreated mother-daughter moment live on stage.
Celebrity presenters include Seohyun of Girls’ Generation, Lee Yo-won, Chuu, Koo Seong-hwan, Moon Sung-hyun, and SF9’s Chani.
20th Anniversary Stages: A Musical Love Letter to Dramas
Of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without music. Legendary changgeuk vocalist Jang Sa-ik performs a powerful stage themed on “light and shadow in human history and drama.” Behind the mic are singers like Youn Tak (winner of the OST Award), girl group ILLIT, and R&B icons Urban Zakapa.
Drama Festival Extends the Celebration
The party isn’t stopping at one night. On October 3–4, the Drama Festa takes over Banpo Hangang Park and Seokchon Lake. Expect performances from Roy Kim, comedy duo UV (Yoo Seyoon and Muzie), and Jungin & Harim, with appearances from Take Care’s Oh Min-ae, Kim Geumsoon, and Demon Palace star Kim Ji-hoon.
Final Take: Global Stars, Local Pride
From K-pop idols to international actors, Seoul Drama Awards 2025 proves drama isn’t just a genre—it’s a global language. Whether you’re Team IU or Team Pachinko, there’s something here to celebrate the craft, charisma, and cultural impact of Asian storytelling.