He Bloomed in Time: Kang Ha Neul Hailed Best Actor at 56th Baeksang Arts Awards

When his name was called, it took him a few more seconds before he stood up. With his mouth agape and his face surprised, the 56th Baeksang Arts Awards hailed Kang Ha Neul as this year's Best Actor for TV. Considering that he competed against stellar actors - Park Seo Joon, Hyun Bin, Ju Ji Hoon, and Namkoong Min - this is indeed a gargantuan recognition for the "When The Camellia Blooms" star.

Kang Ha Neul, in character as Hwang Yong Sik in the 2019 drama, bagged the Best Actor award in the 56th Baeksang Arts Awards. Bewilderment washed over him, knowing that he was contending against superb actors on the list of nominees. It's like the story of "David and Goliath," vying for the award with their impeccable performances.

This is Kang Ha Neul's first major award as Best Actor, primarily in Baeksang Arts Awards. His previous recognitions were Best New Actor and Favorite Actor.

Kang Ha Neul is charming, eliciting the boy-next-door look that can make one's heart aflutter, not to mention he has a lovely voice. He started as a stage actor in the musical "The Celestial Watch" at the age of 16.

Aside from his talent in acting, he continues to sing in many variety shows. In one of his guest appearances in "Running Man," his love for music took over. Since then, every time he appears as a guest, they always wanted to hear his mellifluous voice.

In the long run of his journey to acting, he always gets to work with good actors. One with Park Seo Joon in the film "Midnight Runners," which became a major success as one of the highest-grossing movies in 2017. "When the Camellia Blooms" is his post-drama acting after his military service.

If you ever wonder what makes his character as Hwang Yong Sik the best, it's because "When the Camellia Blooms" talks about society, single parenthood, family, marriage, murders, children, and money. It is a collection of fantasy events in a small town where society's norm is a challenge.

Hwang Yong Sik is simple, yet provides comic relief to the story. He fell in love with Dong Baek, his leading lady in the drama series, a single mother who is deprived of love and support. He understands her needs and always talks about the future that includes her son as a family.

Although getting involved with a single parent is not a walk on a flowery path for a promising and hardworking professional like Yong-Sik, it's in this stage that he is determined to win, not only Dong Baek's heart but his family as well. The story provides a thrill when he tries to protect and save her from any harm.

In real life, though, Kang Ha Neul is single and wants to focus on his acting career. Late last year, he joined his former manager and under TH company. He is known for being humble and being caring towards his fans and is an animal lover.

And in case you haven't seen Kang Ha Neul's past dramas, check out the list below:

2013 - Monstar, The Heirs

2014 - Angel Eyes, Misaeng: Incomplete Life

2016 - Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo