Lee Sang-min’s Triumph: From Debt to ‘Son of SBS’ with Grand Prize Win
Seoul, South Korea – December 30, 2025 – In a stunning upset and a testament to resilience, South Korean broadcaster Lee Sang-min has been awarded the Grand Prize at the ‘2025 SBS Entertainment Awards’. This breaking news marks a pivotal moment in his career, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in Korean entertainment and completing an extraordinary comeback story. The win, announced late last night, has sent ripples of excitement through the industry and among his devoted fans.
Lee Sang-min, pictured at a recent SBS event. (Provided| SBS)
A Comeback Years in the Making
Lee Sang-min’s journey to this moment has been anything but easy. He first claimed the Grand Prize in 2021 as part of the ensemble cast of ‘My Little Old Boy’, but this year’s win is particularly poignant as it’s his first individual recognition. For many, it represents a full-circle moment, a victory over adversity that resonates deeply. In 2005, Lee Sang-min faced financial ruin, burdened with a staggering 6.9 billion won in debt following a business venture gone wrong. He spent years navigating the complexities of debt repayment and rebuilding his life, a period he openly shared with the public.
‘My Little Old Boy’ and the Power of Vulnerability
SBS provided the platform for Lee Sang-min’s remarkable transformation. The network’s flagship program, ‘My Little Old Boy’, allowed him to showcase his vulnerability, humor, and genuine personality. He didn’t shy away from detailing the hardships of his past – the creditors, the struggles, the sheer weight of his financial obligations – and that honesty connected with audiences on a profound level. This willingness to be authentic, coupled with his natural comedic timing, propelled him to become one of Korea’s most popular entertainers. The show’s success also spawned ‘Single For Men, Take Off Your Shoes’, which recently concluded after Lee Sang-min and co-star Kim Jun-ho found love and “escaped” singlehood.
A Program’s End, A New Beginning
The irony of winning the Grand Prize after the cancellation of ‘Single For Men, Take Off Your Shoes’ wasn’t lost on anyone, least of all fellow comedian Shin Dong-yeop, who playfully remarked that Lee Sang-min “abolished the program by getting married.” The show’s ending, however, feels less like a loss and more like a natural progression, a testament to the positive changes in Lee Sang-min’s life. ‘My Little Old Boy’ has become more than just a show; it’s a chronicle of his life, documenting his debt repayment, his marriage, and even his preparations for starting a family. It’s a ‘life archive’ as he described it, filled with memories of his late mother and the challenges he’s overcome.
Gratitude and a Promise to SBS
Visibly moved during his acceptance speech, Lee Sang-min expressed profound gratitude to SBS and his wife. He confessed to feeling unworthy of such recognition, recalling the humble beginnings of ‘My Little Old Boy’ – a recording studio without air conditioning. He spoke of the overwhelming love he’s received, allowing him to not only repay his debts but also to feel a sense of belonging and purpose. He vowed to continue giving back to SBS, the network that gave him a second chance, promising to live a life worthy of their faith in him. His heartfelt words resonated with viewers, solidifying his image as a genuinely humble and grateful individual.
Lee Sang-min’s story is a powerful reminder that second chances are possible, and that vulnerability can be a source of strength. His Grand Prize win isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s an inspiration to anyone facing adversity, proving that with hard work, honesty, and a little bit of luck, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. For those seeking similar stories of resilience and the power of entertainment, archyde.com offers a curated collection of inspiring news and features from around the globe.
