This is a review article written after watching the broadcast. '2025 KBS Drama Awards' actor Jung Il Woo won the excellence award for a long-form drama and expressed his deep longing for the late Lee Soon-jae, who played grandfather and grandson with him in his debut work.
On the 31st afternoon, the '2025 KBS Drama Awards' was broadcast live. Jung Il Woo, who won the excellence award for the drama Our Golden Days, took the stage and said, "When I was taking a break, this work gave me a chance and allowed me to return in good health," showing his affection for the work first. He then credited fellow cast members Cheon Ho-jin and Jung In-Sun and continued his humble remarks.
The highlight of his remarks came when he mentioned the late Lee Soon-jae, his mentor during his debut. Jung Il Woo began, "The last time I saw him was when I debuted in my first work, and thanks to him I have always strived to live as an actor," and paused.
To Jung Il Woo, the late Lee Soon-jae was more than just a senior. He debuted in 2006 as the spoiled grandson Lee Yun-ho in the popular sitcom Please? ("Unstoppable High Kick"), and under the strict yet warm guidance of Lee Soon-jae, who played the grandfather at the time, he laid the foundation for his career as an actor.
Recalling 19 years ago, Jung Il Woo said, "I will engrave Teacher Lee Soon-jae's words deeply in my heart and continue to strive to become an actor who can always improve and develop," and he finished with reddened eyes.
[Photo] '2025 KBS Drama Awards' broadcast screen capture
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