The Baeksang Arts Awards, which began in 1965 to promote the pure development of popular culture arts and encourage artists, has continued without interruption to this day, growing into a comprehensive arts awards ceremony that embraces theater, film, television, and even web content, keeping pace with the changing times of popular culture.

This year, at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards, actor Lee Soon-jae, celebrating his 68th year as an actor (as of 2024), delivered a meaningful performance. Lee Soon-jae debuted in the 1956 play "Horizon Beyond" and has starred in nearly 174 dramas, 145 films, and 33 plays, boasting a brilliant career with seven awards from the Baeksang Arts Awards. (Source:Wikipedia)

Taking to the stage for the official audition, Lee Soon-jae first introduced himself, saying, "Memorizing lines is essential for an actor." He then emphasized that "acting is the lifeblood of an actor, and I constantly worry and research because there are always areas for improvement." He also stated that "there are no identical roles for an actor, and each new work requires creation anew," underscoring that there is no completion in acting.

Lee Soon-jae actually performed a scene from Shakespeare's masterpiece "King Lear," poignantly expressing the suffering that the poor and destitute must endure through Lear's words, bringing tears to the eyes of many actors. Prolonged standing ovations echoed throughout the audience.

Lee Soon-jae concluded by saying, "Acting is eternally unfinished, and I will continue to strive towards completion." This showcased the true meaning of the Baeksang Arts Awards, which has fostered the pure passion of artists for over 60 years, through one actor. We look forward to the Baeksang Arts Awards continuing to be a driving force in the Korean popular culture arts scene.