Athletes-Turned-Entertainers Kim Yeon-koung and Choi Hong-man Win Rookie Awards at 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards

Former athletes Kim Yeon-koung and Choi Hong-man have both been honored with Rookie Awards.

The '2025 MBC Entertainment Awards' took place at 8:50 PM on the 29th at the new MBC headquarters in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. The event was hosted by Jeon Hyun-moo and Jang Do-yeon.

Kim Yeon-koung, who shone in 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung,' received the Female Rookie Award at the '2025 MBC Entertainment Awards.'

Kim expressed her surprise, saying, "I didn't expect it at all," and added, "Receiving so much love for a program about volleyball makes it even more meaningful to me." She thanked the program's staff and her family, stating, "Even though I'm not a broadcaster, receiving a rookie award seems like a sign to continue broadcasting occasionally. Thank you for the award."

The Male Rookie Award went to former mixed martial artist Choi Hong-man, who appears on 'The Manager.' Overcome with emotion, he said, "It's the first time since receiving a rookie award as an athlete 20 years ago. I've never been to an event like this." He admitted he hadn't prepared a speech and expressed gratitude to the production team.

Due to the microphone's height, Choi delivered his speech in a squat position, concluding with, "I can't think of anything right now. I dedicate this award to my mother in heaven. Mom, I love you."

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr