Translation result.
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| Photo: KCTA |
[Sports Today reporter Yoon Hye-young] The Korea Cable TV Association (KCTA), chaired by Hwang Hee-man, announced that it has selected six acts — including singers, actors and broadcasters — who have elevated K-culture and Hallyu through cable programming. The winners will be honored at the 2026 Cable TV Broadcasting Awards on April 15.
The K-Culture Grand Prize will be presented to artistic director Song Seung-hwan. A veteran actor and producer marking his 61st year since his debut, Song helped cable television establish an early foothold by serving as an MC on HBS’s HBS Yeonye Teukgeup during cable’s 1997 launch. Later, as an artistic director, he led the global success of the nonverbal theatrical phenomenon Nanta, playing a pivotal role in spreading K-culture internationally.
The K-Culture Icon Award will go to actresses Shim Hye-jin and Shin Eun-jung, both alumni of HBS’s first open recruitment class — the cable industry’s earliest example of an exclusive talent intake. Shim has worked extensively as a host (including HBS’s Music19) and across dramas, commercials and music videos. Shin has won audience acclaim for her solid performances in cable dramas such as OCN’s Reset and tvN’s Misaeng, Navillera and The Tyrant’s Chef, as well as in films and commercials.
The K-Culture Star Awards will recognize trot singer Lee Soo-yeon, nine-member multinational idol group AHOF (Ahop), and television personality Jung Seung-je. Lee rose to prominence as the youngest contestant on MBN’s Hyeonyeok Gawang 3, drawing attention for her vocal power, emotional nuance and commanding stage presence. AHOF debuted on Mnet’s M Countdown with the single \”Rendezvous,\” quickly building a dedicated fanbase; they sold 360,000 albums in their first week and claimed three music show trophies, positioning them as a next-generation global K-pop act. Math instructor-turned-broadcaster Jung Seung-je has brought his teaching expertise and quick wit to variety programs such as E Channel’s Conquer Life: Jung Seung-je Boarding House and tvN’s Problematic Men Reboot: Math Edition, adding both insight and entertainment value.
Finally, a plaque of appreciation was presented to Chairman Park Yong-duk (Sports Today · TV Daily · Celeb Media) in recognition of his dedicated efforts and passion that have significantly contributed to the development of Korea’s broadcasting culture.
Meanwhile, the country’s only integrated pay-TV awards ceremony, the 2026 Cable TV Broadcasting Awards, will be held on April 15 at 4:00 PM in the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery. The evening will open with a performance by musical actress Jung Seon-ah and will feature celebratory performances by trot singer Lee Soo-yeon and idol group AHOF (Ahop).
[Sports Today reporter Yoon Hye-young ent@stoo.com]
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