Yoo Jae Suk’s omission from Baeksang nominations sparks controversy

The exclusion of "National MC" Yoo Jae Suk from the 62nd Baeksang Arts Awards nominations has ignited a heated debate among fans and industry observers. Despite his relentless activity across terrestrial television, cable, and digital platforms, his name was notably absent from the official list released on April 13, 2026 KST. The controversy has led many to question the transparency and selection criteria of the awards committee, with fans expressing their frustration over what they call the "Yoo Jae Suk Passing" phenomenon.

The Baeksang Arts Awards secretariat revealed nominees for films, television, and theater released between April 2025 and March 31, 2026. In the Best Variety Show category, programs like MBC’s 'Around the World' and Netflix’s 'Culinary Class Wars' were recognized. However, the Male Variety Performer category—featuring Kwak Beom, Kian84, Choo Sung Hoon, Kim Won Hun, and Lee Seo Jin—surprised the public by omitting Yoo Jae Suk. Netizens were quick to point out that he has remained at the top of buzzworthiness charts through tvN’s 'You Quiz on the Block', MBC’s 'Hangout with Yoo', and SBS’s 'Whenever Possible'.

The backlash is particularly strong regarding his digital impact. His YouTube series 'Pinggyego' on the DdeunDdeun channel consistently records millions of views and has redefined the variety landscape over the past year. In response to the snub, some fans have sarcastically commented that they would rather watch the self-produced "Pinggyego Awards" than the official Baeksang ceremony. "What exactly is the criteria for selection?" and "How can the most active and influential MC be completely ignored?" were common sentiments echoed across online communities, casting a shadow over the credibility of this year's awards.

While nominees in other categories, such as Female Variety Performer candidates Kim Yeon Kyung, Jang Do Yeon, and Hong Jin Kyung, received general approval, the "National MC" controversy continues to dominate headlines. Critics argue that the Baeksang Arts Awards risks appearing out of touch with modern consumption trends if it fails to acknowledge the massive shift toward digital content and the sustained excellence of industry veterans like Yoo Jae Suk.