Yu Jae-seok Clinches 21st Grand Prize at 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards Amidst Challenging Year for Network

Yu Jae-seok has once again proven his dominance in the entertainment industry by securing his ninth Grand Prize at MBC, bringing his total number of Grand Prizes to an impressive 21. This achievement comes during a tumultuous year for MBC, which faced significant challenges due to the departure of several key entertainers. Park Na-rae announced a hiatus following allegations of mistreatment of her former manager and illegal medical procedures. Similarly, Key admitted to undergoing illegal medical procedures and stepped down from 'I Live Alone.' Lee Yi-kyung also exited 'Hangout with Yoo' amid personal controversies, leaving a void in MBC's main programs.

On December 29, Yu Jae-seok was honored with the Grand Prize at the '2025 MBC Entertainment Awards' held at the MBC Public Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. This marks his ninth Grand Prize win at MBC alone.

In his acceptance speech, Yu Jae-seok expressed gratitude to his family, saying, "First and foremost, I thank my parents and my ever-supportive wife, Na Kyung-eun." He also extended his appreciation to the production team of 'Hangout with Yoo.'

Yu further acknowledged his colleagues, stating, "I always wanted to thank Haha and Joo Woo-jae. Although they left the show this year, I am grateful for the hard work of Jin-joo, Mi-joo, and Yi-kyung." His mention of Lee Yi-kyung, who recently left the show due to personal issues, drew attention.

Lee Yi-kyung, after leaving the program, sparked controversy at the AAA Awards by only mentioning Haha and Joo Woo-jae in his acceptance speech, leading to speculation about a possible snub towards Yu Jae-seok.

Yu Jae-seok continued, "Unpredictable situations often arise, and countless staff members work tirelessly to ensure the show airs each week. Without the support of our viewers, neither I nor 'Hangout with Yoo' would be where we are today."

He concluded by expressing heartfelt thanks to the production team, acknowledging the increasingly challenging broadcasting environment. "Last year, I received my 20th Grand Prize from another network, and this award marks my 21st," he said, hinting at his ambition for a 22nd Grand Prize.

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