K-drama’s most celebrated storyteller just made history. Writer Kim Eun Sook has been named the Golden Bird Prize winner, the top honor at the Seoul International Drama Awards 2026.
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A First for Screenwriters
The Golden Bird Prize recognizes depth of message, originality, global appeal, and contributions that expand television’s artistic boundaries. Kim is the first screenwriter to win and only the fourth individual recipient, following Choi Min Sik, director Park Chan Wook, and Ben Stiller.
Her résumé explains why: Secret Garden, Descendants of the Sun, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, Mr. Sunshine, The Glory, and Genie, Make a Wish.
Seoul International Drama Awards : Full Winners List
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Golden Bird Prize | Kim Eun Sook |
| Best Miniseries | My Royal Nemesis, The Dream Life of Mr. Kim |
| Best Actor | Ryu Seung Ryong (The Dream Life of Mr. Kim) |
| Outstanding Korean Drama | The Dream Life of Mr. Kim, We Are All Trying Here |
| Outstanding Korean Actor | Koo Kyo Hwan (We Are All Trying Here) |
| Outstanding Korean Actress | Lim Ji Yeon (My Royal Nemesis) |
| Outstanding Drama OST | RIIZE’s Anton, “Close to Me” (Yumi’s Cells 3) |
| Outstanding Asian Star | NCT’s Jaemin (Wind Up), BLACKPINK’s Jisoo (Boyfriend on Demand) |
Standout Moments
The Dream Life of Mr. Kim is the night’s big winner, taking wins for the drama itself and for Ryu Seung Ryong as Best Actor. My Royal Nemesis also has two wins. The Asian Star category recognizes two K-pop idols who crossed over to acting, Jaemin and Jisoo, and RIIZE’s Anton picked up the OST prize.
How to Watch the Ceremony?
The official ceremony airs live on October 8 at 4:55 p.m. KST on MBC. It will also stream on the awards’ official YouTube channel, so international fans can tune in too.
Keep up with the latest in K-drama news and explore more entertainment coverage.
FAQs
Who won the Golden Bird Prize in 2026?
Screenwriter Kim Eun Sook, the first writer ever to receive the honor.
When is the Seoul International Drama Awards ceremony?
It airs live on October 8 at 4:55 p.m. KST on MBC and YouTube.
