Choo Young-woo Gains Ground in July Netizen Awards
As the July 2025 Netizen Awards reach the halfway mark, actor Choo Young-woo is quietly rising through the ranks. As of July 2 at 1:17 p.m., Choo holds the 17th spot in the Best Actor category with 23 votes (0.9%). Though his position trails top contenders like Byeon Woo-seok and Rowoon, fans credit his recent performance for generating buzz and creating momentum.
Capturing Hearts in When the Stars Align
Choo is currently starring as the male lead Bae Gyeon-woo in tvN’s Monday-Tuesday K-drama When the Stars Align. His portrayal of a guarded man falling in love has earned him the title of ‘first love icon’ from viewers. Choo’s nuanced expressions and gentle gaze perfectly depict the innocence and excitement of new romance.
The character Gyeon-woo, who once lived behind an emotional wall, begins to open up after meeting Seong-ah (played by Jo Yi-hyun). From cherishing her every word to smiling at her small gestures, Gyeon-woo’s quiet transformation is portrayed with a delicate sincerity that resonates with viewers.
A Storyline Full of Emotion
Just when happiness seemed within reach, a dramatic twist hits. Gyeon-woo is shattered upon encountering Seong-ah in a shaman’s robe, facing a painful truth. Choo’s gripping monologue — “Maybe I deserve to be happy, at least once” — left a lasting impact and displayed his strength in emotional acting.
While the top spot in the July Netizen Awards currently belongs to Byeon Woo-seok with 1,000 votes (37.4%), Choo’s performance is steadily winning over the audience. Fans are rallying behind him as the drama continues airing, creating possibilities for a late-stage surge in votes.
Performance That Resonates Beyond the Screen
It’s too early to predict whether the current popularity of When the Stars Align will translate into award success. However, one thing is clear: Choo Young-woo’s emotionally rich performance is becoming one of the most talked-about elements of the July drama lineup, and he’s proving to be a dark horse in this year’s Netizen Awards.
