Jun Hyun-moo took the stage on behalf of "I Live Alone" ― and bowed deeply amid recent controversy.
At the 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards on Dec. 29, the Entertainer of the Year and grand prize nominee stepped up to accept his trophy, but instead of basking in the moment, he delivered a solemn speech.
"It’s a celebratory night, but I don’t think I’ve ever attended an awards show feeling this apologetic," he began.
"Viewers have supported 'I Live Alone' year after year, making it one of Korea’s most-loved variety shows, but I ― among others ― fell short of expectations. So this award doesn’t feel simply joyful," he continued. "I may not get another chance to say this, so I want to offer my sincere apologies." He then bowed at a 90-degree angle onstage.
"I’ll take this not as ‘you did well,’ but as ‘do better from here,’" Jun said, adding, "In 2026, we’ll aim to make a show that makes you smile ― with no eyebrow-raising moments."
"To our hardworking production team, I love you, and I’m sorry," he added. "In 2026, 'I Live Alone' will launch a ‘Make It New’ project. We’ll work to show you real change."
"I Live Alone", where Jun has long been a fixture, was recently hit with back-to-back departures by Park Na-rae and KEY of SHINee following backlash over a so-called "injection aunt" bit. Jun also faced scrutiny when old footage of him receiving an IV drip in a car resurfaced, prompting speculation about illegal medical treatment; he pushed back by releasing past medical records and addressing the claims.
Elsewhere at the 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards, Yoo Jae-suk won the night’s top honor (Daesang), bringing his career total to 21 grand prizes across the three terrestrial networks and the Baeksang Arts Awards.
[Photo=MBC]
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)