The 60th Baeksang Arts Awards 2024 - Actor Lee Soon-jae's 'What is Art?'

Launched in 1965 to promote the pure development of popular culture arts and boost the morale of artists, the Baeksang Arts Awards has continued uninterrupted to this day. It has evolved into a comprehensive arts awards ceremony that encompasses theater, film, TV, and even web content, keeping pace with the changing times of popular culture.

At the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards this year, actor Lee Soon-jae, celebrating his 68th year in acting (as of 2024), delivered a meaningful performance. Since his debut in the 1956 play "Beyond the Horizon," Lee Soon-jae has appeared in nearly 174 dramas, 145 films, and 33 plays, boasting a remarkable career with 7 Baeksang Arts Awards under his belt. (Source: Wikipedia)

Taking the stage for his audition, Lee Soon-jae first introduced himself, stating, "Memorizing lines is fundamental for an actor." He emphasized, "Acting is an actor's lifeblood, and I constantly worry and study because I always feel there's something lacking." He also stressed that "no two roles are the same for an actor, and they must be recreated with each new work," underscoring the idea that acting is never truly complete.

Lee Soon-jae actually performed a scene from Shakespeare's renowned play, "King Lear." He poignantly expressed the suffering endured by the poor and destitute through King Lear's words, bringing tears to many actors' eyes. The audience erupted in a prolonged standing ovation.

Lee Soon-jae concluded by saying, "Acting is eternally unfinished, and I will continue to challenge myself towards perfection." In a way, he showcased the true meaning of the Baeksang Arts Awards, which has encouraged the pure passion of artists for over 60 years. We look forward to the Baeksang Arts Awards continuing to serve as a living testament to the Korean popular culture arts scene in the future.