Yoo Jae-suk's Absence from Baeksang Arts Awards Nominee List Sparks Debate

The exclusion of popular TV personality Yoo Jae-suk from the list of nominees for the 62nd Baeksang Arts Awards in the Male Variety Performer category has sparked a variety of reactions. Yoo, who has been a perennial favorite for the award, was notably absent from this year's list, surprising many.

According to the nominees announced on the 13th, the contenders for the Male Variety Performer award include Kwak Beom, Kian84, Kim Won-hoon, Lee Seo-jin, and Choo Sung-hoon. The awards consider content aired on terrestrial, cable, and OTT platforms, as well as web content, from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

Yoo Jae-suk's exclusion has raised eyebrows, given his consistent presence on popular shows like SBS's 'Running Man,' MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo,' tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block,' and his YouTube content 'Pinggye-go.' Many online commentators find it puzzling, especially considering his influence and popularity on YouTube.

The sentiment that it's surprising for Yoo not to even be nominated, regardless of winning, is widespread. None of the major shows he appeared in were included in the nominee list, leading some to question the selection criteria.

However, it's not easy to conclude that the selection process lacks legitimacy. The Baeksang Arts Awards are known for considering not just popularity but also the quality and completeness of the work.

On the flip side, some view the results positively, appreciating the fresh mix of nominees like Kwak Beom, Kim Won-hoon, Lee Seo-jin, and Choo Sung-hoon, which breaks away from the usual lineup. The Baeksang committee described the nominees as individuals who transcend the boundaries of YouTube and TV, expanding their presence beyond their primary careers.

The key issue is whether this change can convince the public. While giving new faces a chance is meaningful, the absence of a consistently active and popular figure like Yoo Jae-suk naturally raises questions. Online discussions reflect this sentiment, with comments like "Can Yoo Jae-suk really be left out?" and "It's one thing not to win, but not even being nominated?" fueling the debate.

As opinions clash over Yoo Jae-suk's exclusion and the need for new faces, attention is naturally drawn to the outcome of this year's Male Variety Performer award.

Kim Se-ah, TenAsia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr