The 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards took place in style at the KBS Hall in Seoul, celebrating a vibrant year for Korean cinema. Hosted once again by the elegant duo Han Ji-min and Lee Je-hoon, the event honored films released between October 11, 2024 and October 7, 2025, in 18 categories, including the prestigious Popular Star and Audience Choice Awards.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening came when real-life couple Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin were called on stage, not once, but twice.
Hyun Bin won the Best Actor award for his thrilling performance as An Jung-geun in the spy thriller Harbin, which chronicles the dangerous cat-and-mouse chase between Korean resistance fighters and Japanese forces in 1909. Overwhelmed with emotion, Hyun Bin used his acceptance speech to honor the film’s important message and those who supported it.
“Playing An Jung-geun was daunting. I rejected the role at first, unable to take on the responsibility,” he admitted. “But director Woo Min-ho believed in me and that gave me strength. This award is dedicated to all those who gave their all for our country. And to my wife Ye-jin and our son: my deepest affection for both of them.”
His words moved Son Ye-jin in the audience to tears. The couple’s heartfelt embrace after his speech quickly became one of the most talked about moments of the evening.
Shortly after, it was Son Ye-jin’s turn in the spotlight, being named Best Actress for her role in No Other Choice. The win marked her second Best Actress honor at the Blue Dragon Awards, following My Wife Got Married. In the film, she plays a resilient woman who faces emotional and financial challenges after her husband (played by Lee Byung-hun) loses his job.
“It’s been seven years since my last film and I had many doubts about returning. But director Park Chan-wook gave me the courage to move forward,” he reflected. “Watching Lee Byung-hun’s acting has reignited my passion. Becoming a wife and mother has changed the way I see the world. I want to continue to grow, both as an actress and as a person. I share this award with my beloved husband, Kim Tae-pyung, and our son.”
The emotional highs didn’t stop there. Later that evening, the couple returned to the stage together after winning the Cheongjeongwon Popular Star Award, together with Park Jin-young (Hi.5) and Im Yoon-ah (The Devil Moved In).
“I know this award was made possible by the unwavering support of our fans. I am incredibly grateful,” said Hyun Bin.
Host Lee Je-hoon then chimed in with a lighthearted comment: “I think this might be the first time we see a married couple together like this on stage – it’s such a touching sight.”
Son Ye-jin added, “It’s truly unforgettable. It’s an honor to receive this award together with my husband. Thank you to everyone who gave us this beautiful memory.” Standing next to Hyun Bin, he showed a cheerful V sign, sharing the joy with fans.
Hyun Bin concluded with a nod to their shared journey: “We returned to the stage together with awards in hand, just like after Crash Landing on You. Tonight is another chapter of our shared happiness. Thank you so much.”
To which Lee Je-hoon jokingly quipped, “So I guess you’ll be lining up those trophies next to each other at home. I’m honestly jealous!”
This double triumph was much more than just a celebration of two incredible performances. It was a cinematic love story brought to life, an emotional testament to the talent, collaboration and magic of Korean cinema.
Sources: Hankook Ilbo, KBS2
