Lee Byung Hun goes viral at Blue Dragon Series Awards with no win — Fans wonder if the ‘Squid Game’ star was used just for laughs

— by

Lee Byung Hun, one of Korea’s top actors and a global star thanks to Squid Game, drew major attention at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards — but not for winning anything.

The awards show, aired live on KBS2TV on July 18, was full of fun and emotional moments. But what really got fans talking was Lee Byung Hun’s appearance during the flashy opening — only for him to go home empty-handed.

The show opened with Im Si Wan giving a one-man performance that felt more like a comedy skit than a formal ceremony. He joked, danced to U-KISS’s Man Man Ha Ni, and even showed old footage of Lee Byung Hun dancing, making the whole room laugh. He even copied Lee Byung Hun’s moves in a playful way, while the actor shyly bowed his head and smiled in embarrassment. The moment gave off a Squid Game-like vibe, turning the show into a mini-variety event.

Host Jun Hyun Moo praised the performance, calling it “legendary.” Im Si Wan replied, “I scold myself for saying too much,” and thanked the staff for trusting him with a solo stage. He also playfully apologized to Seo Hyun Jin, Lee Jun Young, Lim Yoon A, and especially Lee Byung Hun sunbaenim, asking for their understanding.

However, after all that attention, many viewers were shocked when Lee Byung Hun didn’t win any awards. Given his global popularity and strong acting reputation, fans expected him to at least be recognized. Some viewers questioned the show’s intentions, saying things like, “Was he just used for entertainment?” Others pointed out the tough competition this year, saying it wasn’t a total surprise.

Despite the mixed feelings, Lee Byung Hun’s appearance — even without a trophy — became one of the night’s most talked-about moments.

Source (1)