Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean drama scene celebrated a joint Grand Prize win at the 2025 KBS Drama Awards, with actors Ahn Jae-wook and Uhm Ji-won recognized for their performances in the popular series “For Eagle Brothers.” The awards ceremony, held December 31st at the KBS New Wing Open Hall in Yeouido, Seoul, saw both actors lauded for their contributions to the critically acclaimed drama. The event was hosted by Jang Sung-kyu, Nam Ji-hyun and Moon Sang-min.
Ahn Jae-wook, a veteran actor with a long and distinguished career, delivered a particularly moving acceptance speech, reflecting on past regrets and expressing gratitude for the recognition. He acknowledged a period of self-doubt and missed opportunities earlier in his career, contrasting it with the humility and grace displayed by the late actor Lee Soon-jae. Ahn’s speech resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the importance of gratitude and continuous learning in the acting profession. He specifically mentioned being deeply touched by Lee Soon-jae’s acceptance speech the previous year, noting how it prompted introspection about his own approach to his craft. The Chosun Ilbo reported on the emotional impact of Ahn’s speech and its tribute to Lee Soon-jae.
“For Eagle Brothers” Soars to Success
“For Eagle Brothers” captivated audiences throughout 2025 with its compelling storyline and strong performances. The drama, which aired on KBS, quickly became a ratings success, garnering critical acclaim for its writing, direction, and acting. Uhm Ji-won, equally celebrated for her role, expressed her joy and gratitude, acknowledging the collaborative effort of the entire production team. The Korea Herald highlighted the actors’ appreciation for the writer, director, and the entire production crew.
Ahn Jae-wook emphasized the importance of the team behind the scenes, stating, “Thanks to the writer, director, and production team who gave me this opportunity, I enjoyed filming. I will never forget the memories I made with my partner Uhm Ji-won and all my fellow actors.” He also expressed his intention to take the responsibility of the award seriously and continue to strive for excellence in his future roles. The actor also shared his intention to share the joy of the award with his wife, Hyun-joo, and their children, acknowledging their unwavering support.
Ahn Jae-wook’s Reflective Journey
Ahn Jae-wook’s acceptance speech offered a rare glimpse into the internal struggles of a seasoned performer. He confessed to past regrets, particularly during the peak of his career when he felt he often fell short of achieving the recognition he desired. He admitted to self-blame and questioning his abilities, a sentiment that resonated with many in the audience. This vulnerability, coupled with his heartfelt tribute to Lee Soon-jae, made his acceptance speech a standout moment of the evening. The actor’s willingness to share his personal journey underscored the human side of the entertainment industry and the challenges faced by even the most successful performers.
He recalled feeling “insignificant, like a foolish actor” after witnessing Lee Soon-jae’s humility and gratitude, a moment that prompted a profound shift in his perspective. Ahn expressed a wish that Lee Soon-jae could have presented him with the award, acknowledging the profound impact the late actor had on his career and personal growth. This poignant moment underscored the importance of mentorship and the lasting legacy of influential figures in the Korean entertainment industry.
Uhm Ji-won’s Gratitude and Team Spirit
Alongside Ahn Jae-wook, Uhm Ji-won’s Grand Prize win was a testament to her captivating performance in “For Eagle Brothers.” She expressed sincere gratitude to the entire cast and crew, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defined the production. Uhm Ji-won’s acceptance speech focused on the joy she experienced during filming and the lasting memories she created with her colleagues. Her words highlighted the importance of teamwork and the power of shared creativity in bringing a compelling story to life.
The actress’s acknowledgment of the production team underscored the often-unseen contributions of those working behind the camera, recognizing their vital role in the success of the drama. Uhm Ji-won’s heartfelt gratitude resonated with viewers and industry professionals alike, solidifying her reputation as a gracious and talented performer.
The 2025 KBS Drama Awards: A Night of Recognition
The 2025 KBS Drama Awards celebrated the best in Korean television drama, recognizing outstanding achievements in acting, writing, directing, and production. The event, held at the KBS New Wing Open Hall, brought together some of the biggest names in the industry to honor their colleagues and celebrate the power of storytelling. The awards ceremony featured a variety of performances and heartfelt speeches, creating a memorable evening for both attendees, and viewers.
The awards showcased the diversity and creativity of Korean drama, highlighting the industry’s continued growth and global appeal. From historical dramas to contemporary romances, the nominated series represented a wide range of genres and themes, reflecting the evolving tastes of audiences both in South Korea and abroad. The KBS Drama Awards serve as a significant platform for recognizing talent and promoting the continued development of the Korean television industry.
The ceremony’s success underscores the enduring popularity of Korean dramas and their increasing influence on the global entertainment landscape. With captivating storylines, compelling characters, and high production values, Korean dramas continue to attract a growing international audience, solidifying their position as a major force in the world of television.
As Ahn Jae-wook and Uhm Ji-won celebrate their well-deserved Grand Prizes, the future looks bright for both actors and for the Korean drama industry as a whole. The success of “For Eagle Brothers” and the recognition received at the KBS Drama Awards serve as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and dedication in bringing compelling stories to life. The next project for both actors remains unconfirmed as of February 22, 2026, but fans eagerly await their future endeavors.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates on Korean entertainment and the latest developments in the world of drama. We encourage you to share your thoughts on the KBS Drama Awards and the performances of Ahn Jae-wook and Uhm Ji-won in the comments below.
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