The reason for actor Lee Soon-jae's absence from the award ceremony has been revealed.
Kim Chang-wan, Lee Young-ji, Lee Chan-won, and Lee Soon-jae each received awards in the categories of radio presenter, TV presenter, singer, and actor at the 37th Korea PD Awards broadcast on KBS1 on the 15th.
First, Kim Chang-wan was honored in the radio presenter category. Currently hosting SBS Love FM's "Evening Breeze with Kim Chang-wan," Kim Chang-wan said, "Before coming to the ceremony, I was shaving, and water flowed and washed me while the wind blew and kept waking me up. I want to dedicate this honor to many producers and writers who have awakened me for a long time, just like water and wind."
Lee Young-ji won in the TV presenter category. Active through KBS2's "The Seasons - Lee Young-ji's Rainbow," Lee Young-ji said, "I am really grateful," adding, "Suddenly, a banner appeared behind me, and I was surprised to receive support. At my first birthday party, I held a microphone, and my dream job in elementary school was to be an MC. I think that receiving the presenter award at the age of 23 is thanks to 'The Seasons.'"
She continued, "It was difficult to host, but while hosting 'The Seasons,' I felt it more. I aimed to be the best with my voice, but hosting requires using all five senses. I had to engage the people in front of me and the viewers, moving their hearts while managing the situation, which made me realize that I utilized more senses than I expected. Therefore, my respect for presenters has grown." Notably, after shouting 'Lee Young-ji's Rainbow' with the attendees, Lee Young-ji expressed her gratitude by naming each crew member, including producers and writers.
The winner of the singer category was Lee Chan-won, who could not attend due to a filming schedule. Lee Chan-won said, "It is truly an honor to have my name amongst the winners. Looking back at 2024, there were many personal events. I will work hard in 2025 to provide you with touching moments on stage and broadcasts."
Finally, the award for the actor category was presented to Lee Soon-jae, who received the trophy. Representing him, the agency's CEO Lee Seung-hee accepted the award on his behalf. Lee Seung-hee conveyed, "The teacher is unable to attend due to health issues. He sends his gratitude to the officials of the Korea PD Awards and the judges. He is somewhat unwell and needs considerable encouragement and support. I would be grateful if you could give him a shout of encouragement."
Meanwhile, Lee Soon-jae stepped down from participating in the play 'Waiting for Godot' last October due to health issues and the recommendation of his doctor, which stated that he needed a three-month break.
Born in 1934, actor Lee Soon-jae is the oldest active performer in the industry. Until last year, he was actively involved in the drama 'Gae-sori' and the play 'Waiting for Godot.' However, news of his declining health raised concerns. Fortunately, after recovering, Lee Soon-jae attended the '2024 KBS Acting Awards' and graced the event.
According to OSEN, the reason for Lee Soon-jae's absence from the awards ceremony was due to mobility issues. A close associate of Lee Soon-jae informed OSEN, "His health has significantly improved. However, he still has some mobility difficulties. Due to his age, he has lost strength in his legs, making it difficult for him to move. He should receive assistance or aid from others, but he expressed a desire not to do so, which is why we proceeded with proxy acceptance."
[Photo] KBS
[OSEN]