Actress Jang Nara had a night to remember as she took home the Grand Prize (Daesang) at the 2024 SBS Drama Awards!

The prestigious event, held on December 21 at SBS Prism Tower in Sangam-dong, Seoul, brought together stars and fans alike.

Hosted by Shin Dong Yup and actors Kim Hye Yoon and Kim Ji Yeon, the ceremony was a dazzling celebration of the year’s biggest dramas.

Nominees for the Grand Prize included big names like Ahn Bo Hyun (Rebel X Detective), Hwang Jung Eum (The Resurrection of Seven), Ji Sung (Connection), Jang Nara (Good Partner), Park Shin Hye (Judge from Hell), and Kim Nam Gil (The Fiery Priest 2).

Jang Nara, who shined as the lead in Good Partner, was overwhelmed with emotion during her acceptance speech. “I can’t believe this is real. I feel like I’ve experienced something truly incredible in life through SBS. I’m so grateful. Just like the title of my drama Good Partner, this award was only possible because of my amazing partners,” she said, wiping away tears.

She gave a heartfelt shoutout to her co-star, saying, “Nam Ji Hyun was the pillar of our drama and my personal pillar. Because of her, I was able to achieve so much. She was truly a blessing to both me and the drama. Thank you so much.”

Jang Nara didn’t forget to express her love and gratitude to her family, adding, “To my mom, my dad, my brother, and my husband who loves me no matter what – I love you all so much. It’s been over 20 years since I started, and seeing veteran actress Kim Young Ok here tonight reminded me I still have so much to learn. I’ll continue to work hard.”

She also spoke from the heart about her fans and viewers: “It’s a miracle for people who don’t know me personally to like me and watch the dramas I’m in. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how precious this is, and I regret not understanding it sooner. To all the viewers, thank you so much. I’ll keep working hard to stay an actress you’re always curious about.”

Jang Nara’s winning drama, Good Partner, was a hit when it aired in July. The story, centered around a star divorce lawyer Cha Eun Kyung and her rookie partner Han Yu Ri, captivated audiences with its heartfelt human drama. The series wrapped up with an impressive peak viewership of 17.7%.

Congratulations to Jang Nara for this well-deserved win! Fans can’t wait to see what she does next.

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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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