Korean Stars' Awkward Encounters at Awarding Ceremonies: Lee Jung Jae, IU, More [Updated 2023]
More Korean celebrities are gaining recognition worldwide, all thanks to the popularity of several K-contents like "Parasite," "Minari," the Netflix blockbuster series "Squid Game," and more.
While Hallyu makes its way to the other side, these South Koren stars experienced awkward encounters in various awarding events.
From red carpet interviews to encounters with fellow stars, here are Korean actors and actresses who had cringey experiences in award ceremonies.
IU at Cannes Film Festival 2022
The singer-actress made her first-ever appearance at the 75th Cannes Film Festival after her movie "Broker," alongside Song Kang Ho, Kang Dong Won, and more was invited to premiere at the annual event.
As IU walked on the red carpet greeting fans and media, wearing a stunning gray-green dress from Korean designer Choi Jae Hoon, a video of her went viral after being bumped by a French influencer.
The South Korean star showed poise and handled the situation very well by smiling after the incident.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Park Bo Gum, IU's New Drama 'You Have Done Well' to Air on Netflix
As noted by an outlet, the viral clip was on May 27, ahead of the "Broker" premiere. A blonde-haired woman, identified as French beauty influencer Maria Travel, shouldered IU as she walked past the South Korean star.
Due to the fans' rage, the influencer apologized and explained that it was not her intention to bump the actress.
Youn Yuh Jung at Oscars Press Conference
The veteran actress made history as the first Korean woman to bag Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars.
Youn Yuh Jung's historic win was due to her performance in the film "Minari," playing the role of immigrant grandmother Soonja.
Besides her Oscar-winning moment, the South Korean star won the viewer's hearts after she fangirled over Brad Pitt.
READ ALSO: Youn Yuh Jung To Focus on Hollywood Activities After Leaving Hook Entertainment
Before giving her acceptance speech, Youn Yuh Jung expressed how thrilled she was to meet the Hollywood star despite mispronouncing her name.
"Mr. Brad Pitt, finally, nice to meet you!" she said.
At the Academy Awards press conference, the legendary actress was asked by a journalist an awkward question about what Brad Pitt smelled like.
As obtained by The Independent, Youn Yuh Jung replied with a savage answer and said, "I didn't smell him; I'm not a dog!"
Lee Jung Jae at the Screen Actors Guild Awards
Another cringey moment on the red carpet was during an interview with "Squid Game" star Lee Jung Jae at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.
After winning the Outstanding Performance of a Male Actor in a Drama Series for his outstanding performance in the Netflix series, Lee Jung Jae was asked by an "Access Hollywood" reporter about his global fame.
The journalist said, "going to miss the most about being anonymous?" The award-winning actor politely answered with a smile and said, "nothing."
READ ALSO: 'Squid Game' Season 2 Spoilers: Will Lee Jung Jae Play As Right Hand? + New Installment Reportedly More Intense
Fans and netizens criticized the reporter for not doing proper research on celebrities. Lee Jung Jae is one of the A-listers in Korean entertainment, with a slew of remarkable K-dramas and movies under his belt.
In addition, even before the popularity of "Squid Game," the 49-year-old star has been raking countless recognitions from various ceremonies.