Comedian Byeon Gi-su "Can't a Newcomer Award Be Given to Comedians?"
Comedian Byeon Gi-su openly criticized the 'KBS Entertainment Awards.'
On the 22nd, Byeon Gi-su shared a clip of the '2024 KBS Entertainment Awards' Rookie of the Year award ceremony on his Instagram, commenting, "Can't they at least give one to a comedian? The Entertainment Awards only focus on singers," expressing his criticism.
At the '2024 KBS Entertainment Awards' that day, the Rookie of the Year in the show variety category went to singer Zico from 'The Seasons' and Karina from aespa in 'Synkro You.' The Rookie of the Year in the reality category was awarded to actor Lee Sang-woo from 'New Product Launch Pyeonstorang' and singer Park Seo-jin from 'Men Who Do Housework.' However, no rookie award was given to any comedian.
Byeon Gi-su's remarks appear to express disappointment over comedians not receiving rookie awards. Especially since KBS's 'Gag Concert' was revived last November after three years and aired throughout the year, the disappointment seemed even greater.
Netizens who saw the news showed various reactions. Comments included, "It is true that comedians are relatively neglected. From the comedians' perspective, it's a valid statement. Even as a viewer, I felt the same, so imagine how they feel. Let's not be too discouraged," "It seems like the network's own recruited comedians are being treated poorly. Since the boundaries between comedians, singers, and actors have largely broken down, it's natural to give awards here and there, but it would be much better if more opportunities were given to the recruited comedians first," and "The Entertainment Awards don't seem as prestigious as they used to be."
However, some opinions stated, "Comedians' performances on YouTube are impressive, but on public broadcasting, they are not as good as before," and "Awards should be given based on notable achievements, right?"
Meanwhile, the prestigious Grand Prize was awarded to singer Lee Chan-won that day. After receiving the award, Lee Chan-won took the stage and said, "I stepped into KBS through 'National Singing Contest' in 2008 and debuted in 2020, participating in many KBS programs. Recently, I heard comments like 'Singers should focus on singing, why do you try so hard to appear on broadcasts?' But I have loved broadcasting and entertainment since I was young. I don't think I will give up on my path as a broadcaster and entertainer going forward," sharing his acceptance speech.
He also posted on his Instagram, saying, "I received an undeserved and overwhelming award," and added, "I promise to continue delivering wholesome and hopeful laughter through many broadcasts and through KBS. I will never be complacent here and will work even harder."
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