‘2025 MBC Entertainment Awards’ to air amid controversies as attention turns to Daesang winner

by · allkpop

The ‘2025 MBC Entertainment Awards,’ which looks back on the network’s variety programming over the past year, will be held today, December 29.

The ceremony will take place at 8:50 p.m. KST at the MBC Media Center Public Hall in Sangam-dong, Seoul, with Jun Hyun Moo and Jang Do Yeon serving as MCs.

Although the event is meant to be a year end celebration, the atmosphere is far from festive. A series of controversies toward the end of the year led to last minute changes, including shifts in hosting duties, raising questions about how the awards show will proceed under such circumstances.

In December, allegations involving abuse of power and illegal medical procedures surrounding Park Na Rae, a previous Daesang winner, dealt a major blow to MBC’s flagship variety programs such as ‘I Live Alone’ and ‘Where Is My Home.’ Park Na Rae announced a halt to her broadcast activities.

The controversy surrounding alleged illegal medical procedures, often referred to as the “injection aunt” issue, later spread to Key, another core cast member of ‘I Live Alone.’ Key subsequently stepped down from the program and paused activities, also withdrawing from his role as an MC for the awards show. Even Jun Hyun Moo was drawn into the situation after past photos surfaced, prompting him to publicly disclose medical records.

Earlier in November, actor Lee Yi Kyung left MBC’s popular variety show ‘Hang Out With Yoo’ amid personal rumors. While pursuing legal action and maintaining his innocence, Lee expressed disappointment toward the production team and sparked further controversy with public remarks about past filming experiences.

Despite the turbulent year, the awards ceremony will go on, with the biggest point of interest being the Daesang winner. Although MBC has not officially announced nominees, familiar names are widely considered strong contenders, including Yoo Jae Suk, Jun Hyun Moo, and Kian84.

Additionally, Kim Yeon Koung, the star of MBC’s new sports variety show ‘Rookie Director Kim Yeon Koung,’ has emerged as a surprise name to watch after dominating online buzz throughout the year.

The ‘2025 MBC Entertainment Awards’ will be broadcast live on December 29 at 8:50 p.m. KST.

SEE MORE: Jun Hyun Moo pays for team dinners for both KBS 'The Seasons' and 'Boss in the Mirror' after winning Daesang

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