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2025 KBS Entertainment Awards: Top Contenders Revealed
On the 15th, the '2025 KBS Entertainment Awards' revealed the seven contenders for the grand prize. Among them, Kim Sook stands out for her impressive versatility across various shows such as 'The Boss Has Donkey Ears,' 'Problematic Men in the Rooftop Room,' and the innovative delivery talk show 'Delivery Talk,' showcasing her exceptional wit and entertainment skills. Having previously won the grand prize at the '2020 KBS Entertainment Awards' and the Entertainer of the Year award consecutively from 2021 to 2023, Kim Sook is once again in the running for the top honor.
Kim Young-hee has made a name for herself with her iconic character 'Malja Grandma' from the 'Gag Concert' segment, known for her quick-witted ad-libs that resonate with audiences. Her popularity led to the launch of the generational talk show 'Malja Show,' further solidifying her presence at KBS. As a rising icon of communication, all eyes are on Kim Young-hee to see what she will achieve next.
Kim Jong-min, a veteran of '2 Days & 1 Night,' has been a staple of Sunday evening television for 18 years. He has previously won the grand prize as part of the '2 Days & 1 Night' team in 2011 and 2023, and individually in 2016. Currently hosting '2 Days & 1 Night Season 4' and 'The Return of Superman,' Kim Jong-min remains a pillar of KBS entertainment. The question remains whether he will achieve a record-breaking fourth grand prize.
Park Bo-gum, known for his role as the longest-serving and first actor MC of the music talk show 'The Seasons - Park Bo-gum's Cantabile,' has created a platform for musical dialogue with various artists. Having hosted 'Music Bank' from May 2015 to June 2016 and the 'Music Bank World Tour' across 10 countries since 2017, Park Bo-gum returns as a grand prize nominee a decade after winning the Rookie Award at the '2015 KBS Entertainment Awards.'
Boom has been leading the show 'New Release, Pyeonstorang' for over four years, and his role in 'Going and Coming, Lee Min-jung' showcases his veteran skills and friendly charm. After winning the Producer's Special Award at the '2023 KBS Entertainment Awards,' Boom is now a first-time grand prize nominee, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Lee Chan-won made history last year as the youngest male individual to win the grand prize at the '2024 KBS Entertainment Awards.' His dynamic presence across multiple programs such as 'Immortal Songs,' 'New Release, Pyeonstorang,' 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret,' and 'Volunteer' has solidified his reputation as 'KBS's Son.' The focus is now on whether he will claim the throne for a second consecutive year.
Jun Hyun-moo, who has been hosting 'The Boss Has Donkey Ears' for over six years, also shines in 'Crazy Rich Koreans' with his smooth hosting skills and exceptional sense. Having won the Entertainer of the Year award for four consecutive years since 2021, Jun Hyun-moo completes the lineup of formidable contenders.
The '2025 KBS Entertainment Awards' will be hosted by Lee Chan-won, Lee Min-jung, and Moon Se-yoon on the 20th (Saturday) at 9:20 PM at the KBS New Building Public Hall, and will be broadcast live on KBS 2TV.
Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr
