Actor Seo Kang-joon claimed his first-ever Grand Prize at the 2025 MBC Drama Awards, lifting the top trophy with his post-military comeback project. His drama Undercover High School also took home the award for Drama of the Year, marking a dominant night.
The ceremony was held on December 30 at the MBC New Headquarters Media Center in Sangam, Seoul, hosted by Kim Sung-joo and Lee Sun-bin. Seo Kang-joon led Undercover High School with a wide emotional range, seamlessly moving between action, comedy, and deep emotional acting. The series delivered his most mainstream success to date.
Accepting the award, Seo reflected honestly on his journey. He shared that he has often felt he could be replaced at any time, surrounded by actors who work harder and are just as talented. He admitted he questioned why he was holding the trophy, adding that he believed luck played a big role. Still, he emphasized a clear resolve: he does not want to be replaceable and plans to continue studying, thinking, and acting with greater desperation until the very end of his career.
Undercover High School was also named Drama of the Year. Producer Namgung Sung-woo noted that the series never left the top of the buzz rankings from its first episode and promised to return with another engaging project in 2026.
The most-awarded drama of the night was The Moon Flows Over the River, which secured seven trophies, including Top Excellence Awards for its lead actors Kang Tae-oh and Kim Se-jeong. Kang Tae-oh described the project as a journey that allowed him to enjoy acting despite growing pressure with each new role. Kim Se-jeong spoke poetically about holding onto dreams and love for art, promising to continue acting with joy.
Best Actor Awards went to Labor Attorney Noh Moo-jin's Jung Kyung-ho and Motel California's Lee Se-young. Jung dedicated the honor to the entire production staff who worked tirelessly for seven months.
A poignant moment followed with the Achievement Award presented posthumously to Lee Soon-jae. His longtime colleague Park Hae-mi narrated his legacy, while former agency CEO Lee Seung-hee accepted the award on his behalf, sharing a heartfelt tribute to the late actor's professionalism and love for acting.
The Best Couple Award went to Kim Se-jeong and Kang Tae-oh, who expressed mutual gratitude and praised their on-screen chemistry. Supporting Actor Awards were claimed by Kim Nam-hee and Kim Shin-rok, while Rookie Awards were presented to Chae Min, Lee Shin-young, Hong Su-joo, and Jo A-ram.
The 2025 MBC Drama Awards wrapped up as a celebration of both emerging talent and enduring dedication, with Seo Kang-joon's candid words leaving a lasting impression on the night.
