Singer and actress IU has once again reached a career milestone, winning the Grand Prize at the APAN Star Awards for her performance in the Netflix original series When Life Gives You Tangerines.
The 11th APAN Star Awards took place on December 29 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul. As Korea’s only integrated drama awards ceremony, the event recognizes productions across terrestrial television, cable, OTT platforms, and web dramas.
A Powerful Dual Role That Defined the Year
IU claimed the night’s highest honor for her portrayal of both Oh Ae-sun and her daughter Yang Geum-myeong in When Life Gives You Tangerines. Taking on a dual role, she delivered an emotionally layered performance that moved viewers and earned widespread critical acclaim.
The series became one of the most talked-about dramas of the year, ranking among the top search terms in the drama category and earning recognition as the only Korean drama included in IMDb’s list of Best TV Series of 2025. It also dominated multiple award ceremonies, including the Baeksang Arts Awards, Blue Dragon Series Awards, and the Asia Artist Awards, where it secured wins across numerous categories.
Cementing Her Status as a Leading Actress
IU had already received the Actor of the Year Grand Prize at the 2025 Asia Artist Awards earlier this year. With her latest APAN win, she further strengthened her standing as a top-tier actress, achieving what many describe as a career high not only as a musician but also as a performer on screen.
This marks IU’s second Grand Prize, underscoring her rare ability to succeed at the highest level across multiple fields.
A Tearful and Grateful Speech
Upon receiving the trophy, IU became emotional as she reflected on the meaning of the project. She described When Life Gives You Tangerines as a series that would remain one of the most treasured works of her life, simply for having been part of it.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to writer Im Sang-choon for entrusting her with two unforgettable characters, and shared her deep respect for director Kim Won-seok, acknowledging his high standards and unwavering dedication on set.
IU also thanked her fellow cast members, including veteran actors Kim Yong-rim, Na Moon-hee, Moon So-ri, Park Hae-joon, as well as Park Bo-gum and Kang Yoo-seok. She credited the strength and generosity of her co-stars for supporting her through moments of self-doubt. She went on to recognize the production staff, from cinematography to art and makeup, calling it an honor to work alongside such professionals.
A Message for Viewers
In her closing remarks, IU spoke directly to viewers who embraced the story. She described the drama as a tribute to people who continue living with sincerity and resilience, even in the face of sadness. She shared her hope that audiences would find moments of reward and beauty ahead, likening them to a field of blooming canola flowers that quietly awaits those who keep moving forward.
Looking Ahead
IU is currently filming her next project, the MBC drama The 21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife, in which she stars alongside Byeon Woo-seok. Set in a modern constitutional monarchy, the series is scheduled to air in April next year.
With another Grand Prize added to her name, IU’s 2025 stands as one of the most defining years of her career, and anticipation continues to build for what she will bring to audiences next.
Editor’s Insight
What makes this award meaningful is not just the recognition itself, but the timing.
After years of balancing music and acting, IU is now being consistently acknowledged at the highest level for her performances.
This suggests a shift where she is no longer seen as an idol-turned-actress, but as a fully established performer in her own right.
If this trajectory continues, her future projects will likely be judged not by her past image, but by the standard she has now set.