Korea Drama Awards

The Korea Drama Awards stand as a significant annual celebration of television excellence within South Korea. Established in 2007, this ceremony honors the year's best storytelling across major networks and cable channels. The event takes place each October in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province, serving as the centerpiece for the broader Korea Drama Festival. Eligibility covers dramas broadcast from October of the previous year through September of the current year, ensuring a full cycle of content receives recognition.

Unlike other major ceremonies that rotate between Seoul and Busan, the KDA has maintained a consistent home base in Jinju. This location choice reinforces the brand's identity as a regional cultural initiative supported by local government and industry bodies rather than a purely commercial enterprise. The awards distinguish themselves by focusing on narrative quality across public networks like KBS, MBC, and SBS alongside cable channels.

Recent editions highlight the event's continued relevance. The 15th ceremony held on October 12, 2024, saw hits like Lovely Runner and Queen of Tears secure top honors. Looking forward to the most recent cycle, the 17th Korea Drama Awards took place on October 10, 2026, crowning We Are All Trying Here as the Best Drama, with IU and Byeon Woo-seok among the celebrated winners. [edit]