Kim Soo Hyun Over Kim Ji Won? Baeksang Art Awards Judge Sparks Backlash After “Queen of Tears” Snub
The Baeksang Arts Awards, often hailed as South Korea's equivalent of the Oscars, is no stranger to heated discussions. But in 2024, it found itself at the center of a particularly fierce debate — one that continues to stir emotions among K-Drama fans into 2025. At the heart of the controversy? The beloved series Queen of Tears and a perceived snub that many still haven’t forgiven.
The Controversial Nomination
When the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards rolled out its nominations in 2024, fans of Queen of Tears were thrilled to see Kim Soo Hyun earn a nod for Best Actor. His emotionally resonant performance as Baek Hyun Woo, a husband navigating love, loss, and redemption, was widely praised and undeniably deserving.
However, what shocked many was the absence of Kim Ji Won — his co-star and the series’ emotional anchor — from the Best Actress shortlist. Ji Won's portrayal of Hong Hae In, the icy heiress with a vulnerable heart, was hailed as one of her best roles to date. Viewers praised her nuanced performance, which brought depth and complexity to a character grappling with terminal illness, familial betrayal, and the rekindling of love.
A Judge's Comment Reignites the Flame
Just when the controversy had begun to fade, a recent comment from a Baeksang judge reignited the debate. In a candid interview, the judge casually remarked that Kim Soo Hyun’s performance “stood out more” in Queen of Tears — a statement that didn’t sit well with many fans.
Social media quickly lit up with reactions, many accusing the Baeksang committee of gender bias and downplaying Kim Ji Won’s contribution to the drama’s success. Hashtags like #JusticeForKimJiWon and #QueenOfTearsSnub trended across Korean and international fan platforms, with users highlighting key emotional scenes where Ji Won’s performance arguably stole the spotlight.
The Bigger Picture: A Gender Bias in Award Shows?
While Kim Soo Hyun's talent is not in question, the debate points to a larger issue — a recurring pattern where female performances in emotionally charged roles are overlooked, even when they serve as the emotional core of a series. Critics argue that female leads often face higher expectations and are under-credited for performances that require both subtlety and strength.
Moreover, Queen of Tears was a series that thrived on the chemistry and balance between its leads. It’s difficult to imagine the impact of Hyun Woo’s heartbreak without Hae In’s silent suffering — or his redemption without her quiet grace.
Fans Continue to Show Their Support
Despite the awards snub, Kim Ji Won’s fanbase has only grown. She continues to receive recognition from international audiences and online polls, and her performance in Queen of Tears is often cited in lists of iconic K-Drama roles.
Many fans have taken to creating fan-made awards and appreciation posts, ensuring that Ji Won’s work isn’t forgotten — with some even suggesting that audience-driven awards might better reflect true fan sentiment than traditional judging panels.
Final Thoughts
Award shows are meant to celebrate excellence, but they also serve as mirrors of the industry's values. The 2024 Baeksang Arts Awards may have intended to highlight stellar performances, but its decisions — and the recent judge's comment — have instead sparked a necessary conversation about recognition, bias, and the need to honor female talent equally.
In the end, while awards may come and go, the impact of Kim Ji Won’s performance in Queen of Tears will endure in the hearts of viewers — no trophy required.
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