Daesang Winner Yoo Jae Suk's Acceptance Speech At The "57th Baeksang Arts Awards" Receives National Praise From Koreans

At the 57th Baeksang Arts Awards, comedian and television personality Yoo Jae Suk made history, taking home the Television Category Daesang (Grand Prize) for the second time since 2013!

Korean fans are raving about his victory not only because he absolutely deserved the trophy, but also because he delivered a memorable acceptance speech. After thanking his production teams and co-stars across multiple programs…

I’m a bit surprised… but thank you so much for such a huge award. I took home a big win last year, so I told everyone I’ll be back in seven years. I’m beyond honored that I’m back here tonight though. I’m so grateful that I’m speechless.

I accept the award on behalf of everyone. This award is not for me only. It’s for everyone on the production teams of programs like Hangout With Yoo, You Quiz On The Block, Running Man, Come Back Home, and Sixth Sense. I’m extremely grateful for the staff who make those shows possible, as well as all my sunbae and hoobae co-stars and guests…

… and though nowadays I’m often introduced as a show host and television personality, I’m always going to be a comedian who debuted in 1991. And I look forward to continue bringing more entertainment and laughter to you as a comedian. Thank you for watching my programs.

— Yoo Jae Suk

… he spoke up about the urgent need for an “active preservation of the Korean culture.” Though he did not specify what he may have been referring to, Koreans immediately made the connection and assumed his comment to be about the recent tension between Korea vs. China.

Over the past few months, proponents of Korean culture and Chinese culture have been embroiled in massive disputes after China accused South Korea of “stealing” numerous Korean traditions, from kimchi to hanbok.

Earlier during the ceremony, we talked about things that we take for granted. Among the things that we’ve been taking for granted, I believe, are the cultural and traditional things that have been passed down from our ancestors. And now, more than ever, we should be interested in [preserving] them, as well as cherishing them.

I promise to keep making you laugh, thank you very much for the award again.

— Yoo Jae Suk

Yoo Jae Suk’s speech is now receiving national praise from Koreans who find it to be extra-influential, considering the amount of attention he receives from both in and outside Korea.