Seo Kang-joon Wins Grand Prize at 2025 MBC Drama Awards, 'Mary Kills People' Goes Unrecognized

The 2025 MBC Drama Awards' Grand Prize was awarded to actor Seo Kang-joon, who debuted in 2013. Meanwhile, 'Mary Kills People,' starring Lee Bo-young, remained at a 1% viewership rating and left the awards ceremony empty-handed, despite being her first MBC comeback in 13 years. The drama had garnered anticipation before its premiere but failed to secure any trophies, drawing attention.

The '2025 MBC Drama Awards' took place on the evening of the 30th at the MBC Media Center in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. The event was hosted by broadcaster Kim Sung-joo and actress Lee Sun-bin.

The Grand Prize trophy of the 2025 MBC Drama Awards went to Seo Kang-joon for his role in the drama 'Undercover High School.' Upon receiving the trophy, Seo expressed, "I feel more bewildered than happy. It's so surprising and overwhelming, but I want to thank those who have supported me."

He extended his gratitude to the director, producers, writers, and staff of 'Undercover High School,' saying, "To my agency's CEO, who is the most precious friend and best business partner in my life, let's go together forever. I'm also very thankful to the agency staff. Above all, I sincerely thank all the actors, including Jin Ki-joo, Kim Shin-rok, and Jeon Bae-soo, who worked with me on 'Undercover High School.'" He added, "To my family, I wish my parents good health, and congratulations to my sister on her marriage. I also welcome my brother-in-law to the family."

Seo Kang-joon shared, "This drama was the first project I worked on after returning from the military. I missed this scene so much," and continued, "Having acted for over 10 years, I always promised myself to be grateful and cherish every moment, but I think I forgot that. Spending what felt like an eternity in the military made me miss this scene, and receiving such a significant award through 'Undercover High School' is even more bewildering and surprising."

He further expressed, "While filming, I often thought that I could be replaced at any time. I try to act with my own thoughts and concerns, but when I look around, there are many who work harder and are more outstanding than me," and added, "I question why I'm standing here holding this award, why I occupy a spot on the set, and it only seems like luck. I don't know how long I'll be doing this work, but I don't want to be replaced until the end. I will research and ponder more earnestly and act with more passion."

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