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The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards just dropped its full nomination list, and it’s packed with major heat across broadcasting, film, and theatre. It’s all going down with Gucci again this year, and the names on this list? Top-tier.
Let’s start with the broadcasting category, which got a fresh new label this time. It’s no longer just “TV” – they’re calling it “broadcasting” now, covering cable, OTT, and even YouTube content. A lot more inclusive, and honestly, overdue.
Drama-wise, the race is wild.
You’ve got hits like “Lovely Runner” from tvN, JTBC’s “The Atypical Family”, MBC’s “My Dearest II”, and two Netflix titles — “Doctor Slump” and “The Whirlwind” — all squaring off. The competition’s stacked with both ratings monsters and cult faves.
Variety nominations look just as exciting.
“Earth Arcade” and “Street Woman Fighter” made the cut, alongside viral sensations like “Grandpas Over Flowers”, “Super Rich in Love”, and Netflix’s “Chef Wars”. Expect a showdown in style and sass here.
The educational programmes are also diverse, featuring everything from EBS’s deep doc “Where is My Final Home?” to “All Families” on Wave and SBS’s human story specials. It’s a slice of society, neatly wrapped.
Now for the big players. Best Director?
You’ve got Kim Won-seok (“The Whirlwind”), Kim Hee-won (“Lighting Store”), and Lee Do-hyun (“Doctor Slump”) in the mix. Best Script is equally tense with writers behind “Family Plan”, “The Atypical Family”, and “Lovely Runner” all gunning for the win.
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And the acting? Nothing short of war.
The Best Actor lineup brings Park Bo-gum (“The Whirlwind”), Byun Woo-seok (“Lovely Runner”), Ju Ji-hoon (“Doctor Slump”), and more. IU, Kim Tae-ri, and Jang Nara headline the Best Actress category — each one a giant in their own right.
The supporting categories? Absolutely brutal.
From Squid Game’s returning cast to scene-stealers in Netflix dramas, anyone could walk away with the trophy. And the rookie actor categories might just be the most unpredictable — packed with rising stars making their mark.
Comedy-variety champs like Yoo Jae-suk, Dex, and Shin Dong-yup are all up for Best Male Variety Star, while Suzy, Jang Do-yeon, and Hyoyeon are leading the female list. Baeksang always loved its variety kings and queens, but this year feels extra spicy.
Moving over to films — the theatre struggled last year, but the film list proves Korean cinema’s still got bite.
“Love Law of a Big City”, “Harbin”, and “The Revolver” are in the race for Best Film, while directing nods go to familiar masters like Park Yi-young and Woo Min-ho.
Lee Byung-hun, Jo Jung-suk, and Hyun Bin headline the Best Actor nominees. You can already hear the fan chants. Meanwhile, Kim Go-eun and Song Hye-kyo are ready to clash for Best Actress. It’s a proper heavyweight battle.
Best Supporting categories are no joke either.
Park Jung-min (“War and Chaos”) and Lim Ji-yeon (“The Revolver”) could easily steal the spotlight. Same for the Best Newcomers — all eyes on Park Ji-hyun (“The Hidden Face”) and Kang Seung-ho (“Jang-sun”).
The Gucci Impact Award’s back too, spotlighting socially-conscious films like “To Her”, “Seagulls of the Morning”, and “Resurrected Voices”. Think less glam, more grit — and a reminder that art’s meant to shake us up.
And finally, theatre.
Yes, the stage is still alive and loud. The nominees? All tied to standout works like “Sisters”, “Nine Flavours”, and “The Flute’s Echo”. Only five made it, and every single one deserves a curtain call.
Acting in the theatre section is led by veterans like Kwak Ji-sook and Cho Young-gyu. These performances often go under the radar, but the Baeksang stage is where they shine.
In short? Baeksang 2025 isn’t playing around. With new platforms, global stars, and a wave of fresh blood, it’s easily one of the most unpredictable seasons ever.
Whether you're rooting for Netflix powerhouses, indie cinema surprises, or long-overdue theatre legends — this one’s gonna be unforgettable.
When is the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards?
Official ceremony date hasn’t been confirmed yet, but nominations are live — the event usually takes place in May.
Where can I watch it?
It’s typically streamed via JTBC and possibly online platforms like TikTok or YouTube with highlights.
What’s the GUCCI Impact Award?
It’s a special award focused on films that tackle social issues through a progressive lens. Think substance over sparkle.
What’s changed this year?
Biggest shift? TV category’s now called “Broadcasting” to include OTT and digital content. Plus, original makeup artists and variety producers are now recognised too.