Broadcaster Yoo Jae-seok has received the Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit 35 years after his debut. Yoo expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, production staff, and viewers while vowing to continue working hard without change.
Yoo received the Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit at the 2026 Korea Pop Culture and Arts Awards ceremony held at the Haeoreum Grand Theater of the National Theater of Korea in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 29th.
Taking the stage, Yoo shared his thoughts, saying, “I never once imagined or dreamed of a day like this, and it is such a great honor. I feel like this is an honor for my family and household.”
Reflecting on his debut in 1991, he looked back on his obscure days. Yoo stated, “When I first debuted, I spent nearly 10 years complaining, thinking, ‘Why doesn’t the world recognize me?’ without realizing my own shortcomings.”
He added, “Looking back now, I feel that ‘the world is looking at me too much,’” expressing gratitude for the attention and love directed toward him.
Yoo also credited his colleagues who have been with him for a long time. He emphasized that his current position was achieved through the efforts of senior and junior colleagues, production staff, and crew members who created variety programs together. He also expressed appreciation to the viewers who consistently supported and smiled along with him.
Sharing his determination for future activities, Yoo stated, “What I have to do probably won’t change in the future. I will continuously research and strive. I don’t know how much longer I will be allowed to do this, but I will do my best and work hard every single day.”
Meanwhile, the Korea Pop Culture and Arts Awards, marking its 17th anniversary this year, is a government commendation that honors individuals and organizations who have contributed to the development of popular culture and arts.
This year, the Eunwan Order of Cultural Merit was awarded to N.EX.T, the group featuring the late Shin Hae-chul. Yoo Jae-seok, singer Han Young-ae, performance producer Park Myung-sung, voice actor Park Young-nam, and jazz musician Shin Kwan-woong received the Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit, while the group BLACKPINK received the Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit.
