Comedian Kim Won-hoon dominated the variety entertainment scene in 2025 and secured his status as a leading figure going into the 2026 new year.
Over the course of 2025, Kim Won-hoon built a clear presence across the variety field by appearing in broadcasts and various content. Coupang Play series "Office Workers", ENA "Frying and sautéing travel", "Nego King" season 7, SBS "My Turn", ENA "It's okay to be directionally challenged", and other variety shows on various platforms, he naturally guided the flow of programs with his understated reactions and comedy that sharpened taste with precise timing, and he also consistently drew positive responses through character play based on everyday, relatable humor.
In particular, Kim Won-hoon broadened his connection with the public, including the Millennials and Gen Z, through his YouTube channel "Shortbox," which has 3.74 million subscribers. In short, powerful content that evokes real-life empathy, Kim Won-hoon's slice-of-life acting shone, boosting both online buzz and public recognition. With activities spanning broadcasts and YouTube like this, Kim Won-hoon has established himself as a leading comedian.
This momentum also translated into awards. On Dec. 9, 2025, at the "2025 30th Consumer Day KCA Culture and Entertainment Awards," Kim Won-hoon won the variety category's "popular star of the year chosen by the public," and on Dec. 10 at the "33rd Korea Culture and Entertainment Awards," he won the male variety award, marking back-to-back two crowns.
In addition, on Dec. 30, 2025, at the "2025 SBS Entertainment Awards," he won the male rookie award for "My Turn," proving both his wide-ranging appeal and newsworthiness. Kim Won-hoon said, "I debuted in 2015, and this year marks 10 years. I think this is not an award for being good but an award for enduring well, and I will work hard to endure well," and added, "I think the only thing to give back for the excessive love is laughter. I hope 2026 brings safety and happiness to everyone," expressing heartfelt thanks.
With tightly stacked content and truly hot activity, Kim Won-hoon shone through the end of 2025 year-end, once again confirming his strength in the variety field. In addition, he was chosen as the new MC of the rising popular YouTube content 'Twelfth Floor's "Open for business"', and he is expected to continue a more advanced trajectory into 2026.
[Photo] Broadcast capture
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