The 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held on July 18 at Paradise City in Incheon, turned out to be a dazzling evening of celebration, talent, and glamour. A highly anticipated annual event, this year’s ceremony honoured a wide array of South Korean entertainment figures who have significantly contributed to the world of dramas and variety shows. With stars gracing the red carpet and memorable performances lighting up the stage, the night was packed with both emotion and festivity.
The highest honour of the evening, the Grand Prize (Daesang), went to When Life Gives You Tangerines, a Netflix series that has resonated deeply with viewers for its emotional storytelling and poignant performances. The show also saw its lead actress, IU, win the Best Actress award, further cementing its place as a fan and critic favourite. IU’s performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and nuanced portrayal, earning her both the Popularity Award and a top acting honour.
Meanwhile, The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call emerged as a strong contender, taking home the Best Drama title and scoring two major acting awards. Ju Ji Hoon was named Best Actor for his role in the series, while Choo Young Woo earned the Best New Actor award, highlighting the drama’s impactful casting and storytelling. Additionally, the show brought recognition to its rising talent, showcasing its ability to blend intense action with emotional resonance.
Among the supporting categories, Lee Kwang Soo won Best Supporting Actor for Karma, bringing attention to his powerful performance in a role that strayed from his usual comedic image. Yum Hye Ran, who also starred in When Life Gives You Tangerines, was honoured as Best Supporting Actress, adding to the show’s impressive tally for the night.
Newcomers Kim Min Ha and Moon Sang Hoon also left a mark. Kim was recognised as Best New Actress for her work in Way Back Love, while Moon, known for The Blank Menu For You, took home Best New Entertainer (Male). Mimi, another standout from Kian’s Bizarre B&B, earned the Best New Entertainer (Female) title, highlighting the growing influence of fresh faces in Korean entertainment.
The Popularity Awards were shared by four major names—Hyeri, IU, Park Bo Gum, and Lee Jun Hyuk—reflecting their massive fan followings and undeniable screen presence. TXT’s Yeonjun received the OST Popularity Award for “Boyfriend,” adding a musical highlight to the evening and reflecting the ongoing crossover of K-pop and K-drama.
In the entertainment and variety sector, Culinary Class Wars was named Best Entertainment Show. Kian84’s Kian’s Bizarre B&B earned him Best Male Entertainer, while Lee Ye Eun from SNL Korea was awarded Best Female Entertainer. The LG Uplus Good Influence Award was given to Ji Ye Eun, recognising her positive societal impact.
The evening was co-hosted by King the Land star YoonA and seasoned TV personality Jun Hyun Moo. YoonA stunned the audience in a dazzling silver and white gown, while Jun Hyun Moo looked sharp in a tailored black blazer. The ceremony kicked off with Im Si Wan’s electric opening act and included a nostalgic tribute to Lee Byung Hun’s breakdancing past, followed by musical sets from JAESSBEE and KiiiKiii that kept the energy high throughout.
A constellation of stars also took the stage as presenters, including Park Bo Young, Go Yoon Jung, Im Si Wan, and many more, making the awards night a celebration of both established talents and emerging ones. Altogether, the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards was not only a glamorous affair but also a heartfelt tribute to the creativity, passion, and artistry that continue to define Korean entertainment.
