Actress Song Ji Woo has been honored with the Rising Star award at the prestigious "2024 Best Brand Awards - Korea Hallyu Entertainment Awards."

On the 14th, amidst the grandeur of the event held at the National Assembly Building in Seoul's Yeouido-dong, Song Ji Woo accepted the accolade, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

The Korea Hallyu Entertainment Awards, organized by the Korea Best Brand Association and the Sejong King National Committee, celebrates stars, brands, and influencers cherished by consumers for their remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry.

Since her debut in 2019 with the MBC drama "Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung," Song Ji Woo has steadily carved her path with notable roles in dramas like "Extraordinary You," "Selection: The War Between Women," and "The Queen's Dilemma."

Notably, her portrayal of young Hye-jeong in Netflix's "The Glory" showcased her versatility and acting prowess, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Currently, Song Ji Woo captivates audiences as Ban Dan-ah in the Tving original series "I Openly Dream of Cinderella," where her portrayal adds layers of complexity to the drama's narrative. Her chemistry with co-stars Lee Jun-young and Pyo Ye-jin intensifies the storyline, highlighting her ability to embody diverse characters with grace and depth.

Transitioning from her breakout role in "The Glory," Song Ji Woo continues to redefine herself in "I Openly Dream of Cinderella," solidifying her status as a rising star in the Korean entertainment scene.

Her recognition with the Rising Star award underscores her promising future and draws anticipation for her upcoming projects.

As Song Ji Woo remains committed to her craft, fans eagerly anticipate her future roles and contributions to the industry.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

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