The 22nd Director’s Cut Awards, an event celebrated and chosen by Korean film directors themselves, was successfully held on March 7th at 7 PM KST. The awards spotlighted the best in both film and TV series categories, with standout talents across the board being recognized for their contributions to Korean cinema and television.
Rising star Lee Han Byeol was awarded the Best New Actress for her role as Kim Mo Mi in Mask Girl. Overwhelmed by the honor, she expressed her gratitude: “I’m still teetering with every step amid numerous concerns, but thanks to this great courage given, I’ll persevere and do my best.”
Ahn Jae Hong, who played Ju Oh Nam in Mask Girl, took home the Best Actor- Series award. He extended his thanks to director Kim Yong Hoon for the opportunity to portray such an attractive character, adding, “I want to take on a variety of roles.”
Jason Yu, the debutant director of Sleep, was honored with the Best New Director award. Currently overseas, he sent a video message expressing his gratitude to all those who supported his first film. He also specially thanked the late actor Lee Sun Kyun, saying, “Thanks to Lee Sun Kyun’s advice and affection, I could make a better film and grow as a better director.”
The competition was fierce, especially for the Best Actor in the film category, which Lee Byung Hun clinched for his role in Concrete Utopia. Lee Byung Hun shared his humor in his acceptance, stating, “Looking at the nominees, I realize again what a tremendous honor this is.” And with a jest, he added, “It seems the directors do indeed watch us with a ‘keen and meticulous’ eye.”
Below is the full list of winners.
Film Category
Best Director: Kim Sung Soo (12.12: The Day)
Best New Director: Jason Yu (Sleep)
Best Screenplay: Hong In Pyo, Hong Won Chang, Lee Young Jong, Kim Sung Soo (12.12: The Day)
Vision Award: July Jung (Next Sohee)
Best Actress: Kim Sun Young (Concrete Utopia)
Best Actor: Lee Byung Hun (Concrete Utopia)
Best New Actress: Kim Si Eun (Next Sohee)
Best New Actor: Hong Xa Bin (Helpless)
Series Category:
Best Director: Kim Yong Hoon (Mask Girl)
Best Actor: Ahn Jae Hong (Mask Girl)
Best Actress: Yeom Hye Ran (Mask Girl)
Best New Actress: Lee Han Byeol (Mask Girl)
Best New Actro: Moon Sang Hoon (D.P. Season 2)
Source: Directors Guild of Korea
