Yoo Jae-suk, Overcoming Health Deterioration to Bear Fruit: "I Will Do My Best Until the Day It Is Permitted"… Receives Cultural Merit Medal [Popular Culture and Arts Award]

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Broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk received a cultural merit medal and expressed his overwhelming feelings.

The "2026 Republic of Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards Ceremony" was held at 6 p.m. on the 29th at the Haerom Theater of the National Theater in Jung-gu, Seoul.

The "Republic of Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards" marks its 17th edition this year. It is the "most authoritative government award in the field of popular culture and arts," aimed at elevating the social status of popular culture and arts spanning diverse fields such as actors, singers, comedians, directors, writers, voice actors, and producers, and encouraging those who have contributed to the development of popular culture and the spread of Hallyu.

On this day, Yoo Jae-suk received a cultural merit medal. The cultural merit medal is the highest rank within the Popular Culture and Arts Awards.

Yoo Jae-suk said, "I do not know how to express my gratitude. I have never once thought about or dreamed of such a day, yet it is truly an honor," adding, "I feel that this is an honor for my family and my lineage."

He stated, "I debuted in 1991 and am now entering my 36th year. Looking back on the time of my debut, I spent nearly 10 years complaining about why the world did not recognize me, rather than acknowledging my own shortcomings," and continued, "Looking back now, I feel that the world is watching me too closely these days. I am grateful and deeply grateful."

Yoo Jae-suk also said, "I believe I was able to stand here today because of my colleagues, seniors and juniors, production teams, and staff who worked hard with me to create entertaining variety programs, as well as the viewers who always support us and make us laugh," expressing his gratitude.

Yoo Jae-suk said, "I think what I do will not change going forward. I will continue to research and strive without ceasing. I do not know when the day of permission will come, but I will do my best and work hard every single day. I sincerely thank all those who have given me this great award once again."

This year's cultural merit medals were awarded to 10 recipients, including the late singer Shin Hae-cheol, broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk, singer Han Young-ae, voice actor Park Young-nam, performance producer Park Myung-seong, jazz musician Shin Gwan-woong, and all members of BLACKPINK.

Meanwhile, Yoo Jae-suk canceled his recording session on the 22nd of last month for the SBS variety program "Tteumman Nayeun," due to deteriorating health before the taping. At the time, Yoo Jae-suk was suffering from a severe cold and flu-like symptoms. His cancellation of the day's recording was the first since his debut, drawing concern from many. He has now recovered his health and is fulfilling his schedule.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original