SEOUL — The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) have announced the recipients of the 2025 Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards, the nation's most prestigious government honor for contributions to the arts. A total of 31 individuals and groups, including the late comedian Jeon Yoo-sung, actor Lee Byung-hun, and K-pop icon G-Dragon, will be recognized at the 16th annual ceremony on October 23rd at the National Theater of Korea.

The awards celebrate artists—including singers, actors, comedians, and writers—whose work has significantly elevated the status of Korean popular culture and promoted the industry’s development both domestically and internationally.

Six Luminaries Honored with Cultural Merit 

Six figures will be bestowed with the Order of Cultural Merit (Munhwa Hunjang), a five-tiered government decoration.

The Silver Crown (Eungwan) Order, the second-highest honor, goes to veteran actress Kim Hae-sook. Affectionately known as the "Nation's Mother," Kim has appeared in numerous box-office hits and popular dramas since her debut in 1975, cementing her status as a leading figure in Korean cinema.

Receiving the Precious Crown (Bogwan) Order are celebrated actors Lee Byung-hun and Jung Dong-hwan. Lee is being recognized for his remarkable international career, including appearances in Hollywood films, which have showcased the global potential of Korean pop culture. Jung Dong-hwan is honored for his decades-long career and his intellectual contributions to the arts through continuous exploration of classical literature and philosophy.

The Jade Crown (Okgwan) Order will be awarded posthumously to comedian Jeon Yoo-sung, who passed away on September 25th. He is celebrated for his role as a comedy pioneer, mentor to younger comedians, and efforts in developing regional cultural content. Joining him are legendary voice actor Bae Han-seong, who greatly advanced the Korean voice acting industry, and global superstar G-Dragon (Kwon Ji-yong). The BIGBANG leader is credited with spearheading the Hallyu wave and significantly expanding the value of the Korean popular arts industry worldwide.

Presidential and Ministerial Commendations 

The government will also present Presidential, Prime Minister, and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Commendations to 25 other distinguished artists and groups.

Recipients of the Presidential Commendation include actors Kim Mi-kyung, Lee Min-ho, and Lee Jung-eun, as well as K-pop powerhouses TVXQ, Rosé (BLACKPINK), and Seventeen, alongside voice actor Kim Eun-young.

The Prime Minister's Commendation goes to actors Kim Ji-won, Kim Tae-ri, Park Bo-young, Park Hae-joon, and Ju Ji-hoon, singers ATEEZ and TWICE, and musician Choi Hee-sun.

Finally, the MCST Minister’s Commendation will honor rising stars and notable artists, including actors Go Youn-jung, Byeon Woo-seok, Ji Chang-wook, and Choo Young-woo, idol groups RIIZE, LE SSERAFIM, (G)I-DLE, and ZEROBASEONE, comedian Lee Su-ji, and choreographer Bebe.

Recognizing Behind-the-Scenes Talent 

In a separate ceremony the day before, the 2025 Popular Culture and Arts Production Staff Awards will also recognize the often-unsung heroes of the industry. Art Director Ryu Sung-hee (Podo Studio) and CEO Park Sung-il (Hogisim Studio), known for their work on the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines (폭싹 속았수다), are among four recipients of the MCST Minister’s Commendation for their excellence in the art and sound categories.

The awards shine a spotlight on the diverse talent driving the global success of Korean entertainment, from seasoned veterans and global icons to emerging stars and essential production staff.

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