The 60th Baeksang Arts Awards, known as one of the most prestigious award shows in the Korean entertainment industry, has announced this year's nominations and netizens are not too happy.

The Baeksang Arts Awards are highly anticipated every year, as they recognize excellence in Korean film, television, and theatre. Not just artists but fans also look forward to this night, hoping for acknowledgment for their favorite works and actors. While it is not possible for everyone's favorite artist to receive a nod or take home an award, this year, the nominations have been causing quite the controversy all over the world.

Korean netizens and global fans are unanimously discontent with the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards nominations, especially in the TV category. So, this article and analysis focus exclusively on the controversy surrounding the TV nominations.

60th Baeksang Arts Awards Nominations - Sentiment Analysis

We pulled and analyzed posts from all over the internet, such as on X, Instagram, and NATE PANN, to understand this controversy and highlight fans' opinions, concerns, and protestations. What we noticed was that fans from all over the world, regardless of whether they are Korean or international, shared similar opinions on the nominations this time, particularly in regards to actors who were snubbed.

Before we get into our findings, let's take a brief look at the nominations that are causing the most contention with the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards. 

Categories under "TV" that are taking the most heat are "Best Actor" and "Best Actress".

Baeksang Official's Instagram

In the "Best Actor (TV)" category, the nominations are Kim SooHyun for "Queen Of Tears", NamKoong Min for "My Dearest", Ryu SeungRyong for "Moving", Yoo YeonSeok for "A Bloody Lucky Day", and Yim SiWan for "Boyhood".

Baeksang Official's Instagram

In the "Best Actress (TV)" category, we have Ra MiRan for "The Good Bad Mother", Ahn EunJin for "My Dearest", Uhm JungHwa for "Doctor Cha", Lee HaNee for "Knight Flower", and Lim JiYeon for "Lies Hidden In My Garden".

Rather than directly expressing disapproval of the nominated actors, fans are more upset with the actors and actresses who deserved nominations but were not named. You can check out our sentiment analysis chart below for more clarity.

Kpopmap

As depicted in the chart, an overwhelming majority of netizens, constituting 78.7%, voiced dissatisfaction with the nominations. Conversely, only a marginal 5.8% displayed enthusiasm, while 15.5% remained neutral, neither impressed nor disappointed.

Criticism Of Selection Criteria

60th Baeksang Arts Awards

Netizens who showed a negative response raised questions about and criticism of the selection process, including doubts on whether the process was fair after all. The criteria used for nominations were brought into discussion alongside factors like viewership ratings and OTT ranking.

For those who might not know, the Baeksang Arts Awards nominees were chosen from K-Dramas that aired between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. A K-Drama will have to have aired at least one-third of its episodes by March 31 to qualify for a nomination. That is why the ongoing K-Drama "Queen Of Tears" was considered for the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards.

However, many fans were not too fond of the fact that a K-Drama that hasn't even finished airing was chosen for a category, whereas actors from several popular and beloved K-Dramas were not.

As many netizens disagreed with the standards of the Baeksang Arts Awards by which nominees are decided, they renounced the credibility of the same.

Actors Who Deserved Nominations, According To Global Fans

Six names stood out among the numerous posts we analyzed - Kim JiWon, Kim TaeRi, Ji ChangWook, Lee DongWook, Park BoYoung, and Shin HaeSun.

Among them, Kim JiWon is the actress fans are advocating for the most, even more so because Kim SooHyun has been nominated for the "Best Actor" category, but Kim JiWon did not get a "Best Actress" nomination. Fans are quite upset and disconcerted about the reasoning behind such a decision when Kim JiWon, who is playing the title role of one of the most successful K-Dramas right now, has not been nominated.

Comparisons between the ratings of "Queen Of Tears" versus those of "Lies Hidden In My Garden", intended to highlight Kim JiWon's snub, were also drawn, although the argument was quickly shut down when other comments emphasized that the Baeksang Arts Awards does not present awards based on ratings as last year, Kim JiWon's own drama "My Liberation Notes" was nominated for "Best Drama" despite its considerably lower ratings. Both Son SukKu and Kim JiWon were also nominated for "Best Actor" and "Best Actress" respectively.

Another upsetting snub this year, according to fans, was that of Kim TaeRi, who delivered a spellbinding performance in "Revenant". Netizens are mentioning that if Kim TaeRi had been nominated, she would undoubtedly have taken the award home. However, it's a pity that her performance was overlooked.

tvN / SBS / Disney+ / Netflix / JTBC

Similarly, Park BoYoung was brought up in discussion, with many pointing out that Park BoYoung has consistently been snubbed by the Baeksang Arts Awards despite her excellent performances, such as in "Daily Dose Of Sunshine".

Shin HaeSun was also mentioned by several fans, who asserted that the actress' performance in "Welcome To Samdal-ri" was deserving of a nomination.

In response, some netizens who are neutral about the nominees mentioned that while it is true that there are other deserving candidates, the actresses who have been nominated are also incredible, and none of them can be replaced.

In the "Best Actor" category, netizens expressed the most frustration over Ji ChangWook and Lee DongWook being snubbed. Ji ChangWook, who impressed with his brilliant acting skills and range in the Disney+ K-Drama "The Worst Of Evil" and Lee DongWook, who made viewers fall in love with him all over again in "A Shop For Killers", also on Disney+, definitely deserved nominations, according to netizens. International netizens were most vocal about this exclusion.

Once again, there were opinions that these actors were outstanding in their respective roles but the current nominees simply cannot be replaced.

What do you think about the Baeksang Arts Awards nominations this year? Tell us on X!

The 60th Baeksang Arts Awards will be held on May 7, 2024 (Tue) at 5:00 PM KST in COEX Hall D, Seoul.

2024 is proving to be an amazing year for K-Dramas and we love to see it. With the screen comebacks of top stars, rising actors making their mark on the industry, and the increasing versatility of genres, 2024 will undoubtedly give renewed impetus to Hallyu. As we step into April 2024, a number of exciting K-Dramas await.

From thrillers and fantasy to historical and crime, there's something for everyone this month. So, we compiled some of the most highly anticipated April 2024 K-Dramas in a watchlist for you!

Here are 5 April 2024 K-Dramas that you absolutely do not want to miss!

Note: This watchlist is not a ranking. It includes select K-Dramas airing on Korean national television as well as Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ original series.

Top 5 April 2024 K-Dramas

1. "Parasyte: The Grey"

Netflix

When & Where: April 5, Netflix

Cast: Jeon SoNee, Koo KyoHwan, Lee JungHyun, Kwon HaeHyo

Summary: Based on the popular manga "Parasyte" by Hitoshi Iwaaki, "Parasyte: The Grey" will tell the story of how humans fight back against strange parasitic creatures trying to feed off of human hosts and steal their consciousness. While these worms try to expand their power and take over the control of society, can co-existence be possible?

Reasons To Watch: If you're a fan of the anime "Parasyte: The Maxim" or the manga "Parasyte", you have to tune into the April 2024 K-Drama "Parasyte: The Grey". The fact that the show is created by Yeon SangHo, and stars outstanding actors like Koo KyoHwan, Jeon SoNee and Lee JungHyun is reason enough to be hyped and we cannot wait to see what they have in store for us.

2. "Lovely Runner"

tvN

When & Where: April 8, Viki

Cast: Kim HyeYoon, Byeon WooSeok

Summary: "Lovely Runner" follows the story of Ryu SunJae (Byeon WooSeok), a popular star who passes away unexpectedly. However, a twist of fate gives him a second chance at life when his devoted fan, Im Sol (Kim HyeYoon), travels back in time to prevent the tragedy.

Reasons To Watch: "Lovely Runner" is arguably the most highly awaited romance drama among April 2024 K-Dramas. Kim HyeYoon and Byeon WooSeok are an absolute dream pair, and their heart-fluttering chemistry (especially the height difference) is giving us all the butterflies already! We cannot wait for this show to start airing.

3. "Blood Free"

Disney Plus

When & Where: April 10, Disney Plus

Cast: Han HyoJoo, Ju JiHoon, Lee HeeJun, Lee MuSaeng

Summary: BF (Blood Free) is a company dominating the genetically engineered cultured meat market but when CEO Yoon JaYoo's (Han HyoJoo) vision starts being questioned, she realizes that her life is on the line. JaYoo meets the mysterious Woo ChaeWoon (Ju JiHoon), who starts working as her bodyguard.

Reasons To Watch: Much like other Disney Plus originals recently, "Blood Free" is a star-studded K-Drama with a novel premise. Viewers' expectations are sky high for this April 2024 K-Drama, and why wouldn't they be when some of the best actors have come together for this project? Besides, Disney Plus has established a reputation for its high-quality originals and we're hoping that this one is going to be no exception.

4. "Chief Detective 1958"

MBC

When & Where: April 19, Disney Plus

Cast: Lee JeHoon, Seo EunSoo, Lee DongHwi, Choi WooSung, Yoon HyunSoo

Summary: The story of a passionate young detective, Park YoungHan (Lee JeHoon), who cannot stand injustice. He teams up with his colleagues at Jongnam Police Station in Seoul to fight crime in an age where technology wasn't as advanced as it is today.

Reasons To Watch: Lee JeHoon fighting crime again? Sign us up! This April 2024 K-Drama is one of the most highly anticipated K-Dramas of the year, and for good reason! With a retro setting, this K-Drama is going to evoke nostalgia for an age many of us have never experienced and make us fall in love with it. Besides, the cast - which combines experienced stars and rising young actors, is sure to draw your attention.

5. "Missing Crown Prince"

MBN

When & Where: April 13, Viki

Cast: EXO's SuHo, Hong YeJi, Kim MinKyu

Summary: The crown prince of the nation has been kidnapped by a woman fated to be the princess! As they flee, a gentle romance blooms between the two.

Reasons To Watch: SuHo of EXO captivated global K-Drama audiences with his performance in "Behind Your Touch," heightening anticipation for his upcoming lead role in "Missing Crown Prince." Joining him is super rookie Hong YeJi, celebrated for her role in "Love Song For Illusion," garnering a devoted following, and rising star Kim MinKyu, making fans curious about the characters' relationships. You don't want to miss this one!

Previously in Korean entertainment, there were many individuals who solely focused on one line of work. Whether it was being an idol, acting in K-Dramas, or standing on stage as a musical artist, they poured much of their effort into one particular field. However, now it's more common that these stars branch out, challenging themselves and presenting totally different sides to their supportive fans.

WJSN's Bona is but one of these celebrities who is constantly exploring new ventures. Now, netizens are beginning to know the idol-actress by her birth name: Kim JiYeon. She's stood on multiple stages across various genres over the years, showing the passion and perseverance necessary to succeed.

Bona's journey is anything but ordinary, but she's made the best of it every step of the way.

First Steps In The Entertainment Industry

Starship Entertainment

Coming forth, Bona began as a member of WJSN. Their debut with 'MoMoMo' was greatly received, becoming a source of vitamin-like energy for budding UJUNG. In a group of 10+ individuals, it was certainly a challenge for any member to receive an adequate amount of spotlight, but they made it work through various stages and music show performances.

Bona became a shining light that fans loved right from the start. Within such a short time, she mesmerized audiences with her stunning beauty, magical vocals, and radiant stage presence. In spite of WJSN being such a large group, Bona managed to take hold of the spotlight every chance she could, becoming the bias of millions across the globe. Although her career was just starting, a flower road was forming in front of Bona and her groupmates, and they were more than ready to walk along it.

Firm Foundation In The Idol Industry

After such a successful start to their career, the pressure was on Bona and the rest of WJSN to continue their upward trajectory. However, the idol actress continuously broke every expectation, and together with her group, they were able to release such memorable chart-topping hits like 'Save Me, Save You', 'As You Wish', and 'Boogie Up'.

With their resounding success, the girl group was able to travel the world, allowing even more individuals to see Bona's talent up close and in their home country. While many hoped to see her live, fancams were able to accurately show the idol's skills and just how much she improved over the years.

With natural allure and captivating aura, Bona joined the subunit, WJSN THE BLACK. A new side was unlocked for the artist, causing fans to go into a frenzy whenever she took the stage. And with their participation in Mnet's "Queendom 2", there was no doubt that Bona possessed a flexibility that allowed her to don on many different hats, showing her strength as an idol member.

Passion Of A Rising Actress

But the life as an idol isn't the only place where Bona's story lies. Very early on in her music career, she dabbled in the art of acting. While she was first casted in a guest role for "Chicago Typewriter", the star was able to showcase some of her acting potential through the quirky time travel romance, "The Best Hit".

She portrayed admirable promise, carrying the potential to stand among the greats, as long as continued to try and improve. Following shortly afterwards, she continued to land multiple roles through series like "Girls' Generation 1979", "Your House Helper", and "Homemade Love Story". Through every character, you could notice Bona making a conscious effort to refine her craft and become an actress fans could be proud of.

King Kong by Starship

These roles helped to lay down the foundation that Bona stands on today. Even just as a rookie actress, she had the grit and resolve to power through long days on set to complete every project with perfection.

Leading K-Drama Star

Bona then came across a role that would propel her acting career forever in the spotlight. Playing Go YooRim in the internationally popular "Twenty-Five Twenty-One", the entire world fell in love the idol-actress and completely acknowledged her acting prowess. She masterfully piloted the nostalgic feelings of youth and the competitiveness of a professional athlete. The struggles her character faced and the tough decisions she had to make plucked on everyone's heartstrings, making Go YooRim a second female lead K-Drama enthusiasts could not help but love.

She continued on her hot streak, landing the main female lead role in "Joseon Attorney: A Morality". Wearing a hanbok and caring for her people, she swept audiences off their feet over the course of the series. She was again proved that was she leading lady material and would continue to be so in the future.

And with the recent conclusion of thrilling mystery K-Drama, "Pyramid Game", Bona certainly solidified her status as a top acting star. Acting out her character of Sung SooJi, viewers were left speechless as she challenged the status quo and vowed to get rid of the harrowing "Pyramid Game". With this drama, netizens have gotten to meet Bona as Kim JiYeon, amazed at the fact that she is both an incredible actress and radiant idol.

No matter what stage the idol-actress stands on, she's sure to turn heads and have people joyfully chanting her name.

When did you first start following WJSN's Bona/Kim JiYeon? Are you excited for her next challenge?