Lee Min Ho shined on the stage of the 52nd Daejong Film Awards, as the recipient of Best New Actor honors for his debut movie role in "Gangnam 1970."
On November 20, the Hallyu star graciously accepted the award, after defeating actors Park Seo Joon (Chronicles of Evil), Kang Ha Neul (Twenty), and Lee Hyun Woo (Northern Limit Line).
In his acceptance speech, he referenced the Rookie award he received in 2009 for his role in the Hallyu hit, "Boys Over Flowers."
"Six years ago, I came up on this stage to receive the Rookie award for 'Boys Over Flowers," said Lee. "Today, I'm on this stage to receive the Best New [Newcomer] Actor award for 'Gangnam 1970.' Sincere thanks to director and all of the [cast and crew] of 'Gangnam 1970,' who worked so hard on this film."
He went on to express his desire to improve his acting, as a burgeoning film star.
"I will put more hard work into my films," said Lee. "I hope to contribute more to Korean film, in the future."
While the majority of the Best New Actor nominees were present for the ceremony, with the exception of Yeo Jin Goo, the 52nd Daejong Film Awards was marred by controversy, following a boycott from many major stars.
Popularity Award winners Kim Soo Hyun and Gong Hyo Jin were not present for the ceremony, with management for both stars citing scheduling conflicts.
Jun Ji Hyun, who was the recipient of the Best Actress award for her "Assassination," was notably absent from the ceremony, along with Hwang Jung Min (Ode to My Father), who received the Best Actor Award.
"Ode to My Father," a family film that was a surprising hit, was the top winner of the night. The movie recognized as the Best Film and Ol Dal Su received the Best Support Actor award for his role in the movie.
"Ode to My Father" also received Best Screenplay and Best Cinematography.
Best New Actress went to You Young Lee for "Late Spring," while Kim Hae Sook received Best Supporting Actress honors for "Ode to My Father."
"The Royal Tailor," which was noted for the gorgeous hanboks worn by Park Shin Hye in the film, received Best Costume Design.
While there were many seasoned stars who were absent from the ceremony, it provided an opportunity for rising film actors and actresses to shine.
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Adrienne Stanley is a contributing editor at KDramaStars. She is also a contributing music writer at KpopStarz, MTV Iggy and other publications. When she is not listening to "Rhythm Ta," she can be found on Twitter. (@retrogirladdy).
