The '16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards' celebrated the achievements of Korea’s most influential figures in drama, film, voice acting, comedy, K-pop, and choreography. The awards, known as the “Popular Culture and Arts Awards,” represent the highest level of government recognition, presenting honors such as the Order of Cultural Merit, the Presidential Citation, the Prime Minister’s Citation, and the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Citation.
Order of Cultural Merit Recipients
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Kim Hae Sook (Eungwan Medal) – Debuting in 1975 as part of MBC’s 7th batch of actors, Kim has appeared in numerous blockbuster films and is widely recognized as the “Nation’s Mother.”
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Lee Byung Hun (Bogwan Medal) – Known for his profound performances across a variety of roles, Lee has also appeared in Hollywood films, showcasing the global potential of Korean popular culture.
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Jung Dong Hwan (Bogwan Medal) – With continuous exploration of classical literature and philosophy, Jung has creatively reinterpreted these works on stage, becoming a pillar of Korea’s cultural industry.
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Bae Han Sung (Okgwan Medal) – Nicknamed the “Voice of a Thousand Characters,” Bae has contributed greatly to the development of Korean voice acting and mentorship of younger talent.
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Late Jeon Yu Seong (Okgwan Medal) – Debuting as a special recruit writer at MBC, Jeon was a top comedy writer and producer, nurturing new comedians and developing regional cultural content.
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G-Dragon (Okgwan Medal) – A leader in the Korean Wave, G-Dragon has played a significant role in expanding the global influence and value of Korea’s popular culture industry.
Presidential Citation
The Presidential Citation was awarded to seven individuals and groups: actors Kim Mi Kyung, Lee Min Ho, Lee Jung Eun, TVXQ, BLACKPINK’s Rosé, Seventeen, and voice actress Kim Eun Young.
Prime Minister’s Citation
Eight recipients received the Prime Minister’s Citation: actors Kim Ji Won, Kim Tae Ri, Park Bo Young, Park Hae Joon, Ju Ji Hoon, ATEEZ, TWICE, and musician Choi Hee Sun.
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Citation
Ten individuals and teams were recognized with the Minister’s Citation: actors Go Youn Jung, Byeon Woo Seok, Ji Chang Wook, Choo Young Woo, RIIZE, LE SSERAFIM, i-dle, ZEROBASEONE, comedian Lee Soo Ji, and choreographer BEBE.
This year’s awards highlight the continued growth and global reach of Korean popular culture, honoring both the legends who have shaped the industry and the rising stars expanding its influence worldwide.
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