Comedian Lee Su-ji capped a standout 2025 by receiving a Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Commendation at the 16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards, held Oct. 23 at the National Theater of Korea in Seoul.
The Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards are the government’s highest honors in pop culture, celebrating artists and teams who’ve propelled the Korean Wave and the industry at large. Winners are selected through public nominations and an expert panel that weighs career contributions, impact, name recognition and social good, underscoring the significance of Lee’s recognition.
“Viewers and subscribers who watch and cheer me on give me so much strength,” Lee said in her acceptance speech. “I’ll keep delivering feel-good, family-friendly comedy, and I want to share this joy with the seniors, juniors and peers I brainstorm with every day. Thank you for loving comedy.”
The minister’s commendation adds to Lee’s trophy run this year. She kicked off 2025 with a win in the comedienne category at the Korea First Brand Awards, then scored Best Female Variety Performer at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards and Best Female Entertainer at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards. At the 2025 Brand of the Year Awards, she doubled up with Female Celebrity YouTuber of the Year and Female Hot Icon of the Year.
Her momentum spans broadcast and OTT. Lee played a key role in the successful launch of Coupang Play’s "Office Workers Season 1" and continued to shine in Season 2, further cementing her brand. Beyond variety and scripted projects, she flexes her range on her YouTube channel, switching between her signature persona and a roster of alter egos that have made her a standout across formats.
With broad appeal across age groups and genres, Lee has become a go-to for advertisers, reinforcing her status as a true multi-hyphenate. Expectations are high for what she does next.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)