Singer G-Dragon poses on the red carpet at the ‘16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards,’ held on the 23rd at the Haeoreum Theater, National Theater of Korea in Jung-gu, Seoul. / October 23, 2025 [Star News]
Star-Studded 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards Celebrate Icons of K-Culture
Seoul Hosts Annual Celebration of Korean Popular Culture
On October 23rd, 2025, the 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards took place at the National Theater of Korea’s Haeoreum Theater in Jangchung-dong, Seoul. The ceremony, the nation’s highest honor recognizing excellence in popular culture, drew actors, singers, comedians, and other cultural figures whose work has elevated Korea’s cultural footprint globally.
A Record-Breaking Honor for G-Dragon
Among the night’s most notable moments was G-Dragon receiving the prestigious Ok-gwan Cultural Merit, making him the youngest recipient in history. He joins the late Jeon Yu-sung and Bae Han-sung in being recognized for their remarkable contributions to Korean culture.
Remembering the Late Jeon Yu-sung
The awards ceremony also commemorated the life and legacy of comedian Jeon Yu-sung, who passed away on September 25th at the age of 76. Before the ceremony, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young paid tribute, stating,
“We pray for his soul and will cherish his spirit for a long time. I hope today’s ceremony marks a promise for an even greater leap forward in Korean popular culture and arts.”
Jeon Yu-sung’s final recorded interview, released by the awards organizers, revealed his playful philosophy:
“I hope people remember me as a comedian who seemed knowledgeable but was actually ignorant—kind of tricking people in a fun way.” His humility and humor shone through even in reflecting on receiving the Ok-gwan Cultural Merit, saying, “I’m grateful. That’s all.”
Other Honorees Shine
This year’s awards also included:
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Silver Order of Cultural Merit: Kim Hae-sook
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Bronze Order of Cultural Merit: Lee Byung-hun, Jeong Dong-hwan
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Presidential Commendation: Kim Mi-kyung, Lee Jung-eun, Lee Min-ho, TVXQ, SEVENTEEN, Kim Eun-young, BLACKPINK Rosé
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Prime Minister’s Commendation: Choi Hee-seon, Kim Tae-ri, Kim Ji-won, Park Bo-young, Joo Ji-hoon, Park Hae-joon, TWICE, ATEEZ
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Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Commendation: Lee Su-ji, (G)I-DLE, Ji Chang-wook, Choo Young-woo, Bebe, Ko Yoon-jung, Byun Woo-seok, RISE, Zerobaseone, LE SSERAFIM
Several recipients, including Rosé, TWICE, and ATEEZ, were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.
A Night of Tribute and Celebration
The ceremony was both a celebration of K-Culture’s global impact and a moving tribute to those who paved the way. Comedian Jeong Dong-hwan, who received the Bronze Order of Cultural Merit, reflected emotionally on his friend Jeon Yu-sung, saying, “My heart aches… I shared the stage with him years ago. He left earlier, and I remain to receive this award.”
From honoring late legends to celebrating young stars like G-Dragon, the 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards captured the spirit of Korea’s vibrant entertainment landscape—a true star-studded celebration of talent, legacy, and cultural excellence.
