Okay, K-drama fam, the moment we’ve all been waiting for is here. The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards just revealed the official list of nominees for Best Actor and Best Actress in the TV drama category, and honestly? It’s giving everything we hoped for.
Whether you’re a die-hard drama watcher or someone who just started binging Korean series during lockdown (no judgment!), this list is packed with talent, from rising stars to the OG legends of K-dramaland.
Let’s Talk About the Best Actor Nominees First
These are the guys who had us glued to our screens, crying, laughing, and sometimes yelling at our TVs. Here’s who made the cut:
Park Bo Gum (When Life Gives You Tangerines) – Our boy is back! His emotional performance in this Netflix drama hit different. It’s raw, it’s real, and it totally deserves the nomination.
Byeon Woo Seok (Lovely Runner) – This drama had all the feels, and Byeon brought serious heart to it. If you didn’t cry at least once, did you even watch it?
Lee Jun Hyuk (Dongjae: The Good or the Bastard) – So many layers to his character. He really pulled us into the story and made us question everything.
Ju Ji Hoon (The Trauma Code) — This guy just keeps getting better. His role in this medical thriller was intense, and he nailed it.
Han Suk Kyu (Doubt) – A legend, period. His performance was so powerful and unsettling in the best way.
Now for the Best Actress Nominees, Yes, Queens!
These amazing women brought unforgettable characters to life. They made us feel seen, inspired, and sometimes totally wrecked (in a good way).
Go Min Si (The Frog) – Her role was heartbreakingly beautiful. She showed so much strength and vulnerability.
Kim Hye Yoon (Lovely Runner) – Her mix of humor and emotion made this drama unforgettable. She’s growing fast, and we’re loving it.
Kim Tae Ri (Jeongnyeon) – She owned this period drama. Her energy, her presence, just wow.
IU (Lee Ji Eun) (When Life Gives You Tangerines) – She’s not just a singer, people. Her acting here? Top-tier. So honest and heartfelt.
Jang Na Ra (Good Partner) – You can always count on her to light up the screen. This legal drama gave her the perfect role.
Mark Your Calendar: May 5, 2025
The Baeksang Arts Awards ceremony goes down on May 5 at COEX D Hall in Seoul, and it’s airing live on JTBC at 8 PM KST. It’s sponsored by Gucci again (fancy!), and you already know the fashion and speeches are going to be just as iconic as the winners.
So… Who Are You Rooting For?
Tell me, did your favorite Korean actor or actress make the list? Who do you think will take home the trophy? I’m still torn between Park Bo Gum and Byeon Woo Seok (don’t make me choose!).
Share this with your K-drama squad, and let’s count down the days together.
Until then, keep watching, keep fangirling, and may the best stars win.