Actor Ahn Bo-hyun has emerged as one of the biggest breakout stars of the year, earning the Best New Actor Award at the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards a milestone that marks a turning point in his 11-year acting career.

Ahn Bo-hyun received the honor for his performance in the comedy film Devil Has Moved In, directed by Lee Sang-geun, where he transformed his tough, masculine image into that of a gentle, kind-hearted unemployed youth. The role earned widespread praise for revealing a completely different side of the actor.

A Long Road to a “New Actor” Trophy

Although Ahn Bo-hyun made his acting debut in 2014 through the KBS2 drama Golden Cross, the Blue Dragon trophy represents his first-ever rookie award an irony not lost on him.

“I never imagined I would win,” Ahn Bo-hyun said in an exclusive interview with Sports Chosun. “I didn’t even prepare a speech. I had a hand mirror, candy, and my phone in my suit pocket because I thought I’d just be taking photos for other winners.”

He added that he was so flustered on stage that he unknowingly scratched his head with the trophy an unscripted moment that later amused viewers.

Gratitude Toward Seniors, Family, and Friends

Ahn Bo-hyun revealed that veteran actor Lee Sung-min, whom he worked with on a JTBC drama earlier this year, shouted his name loudly from afar when the award was announced.

“He was happier than I was. In that moment, I thought, ‘I’ve lived my life well,’” Ahn Bo-hyun recalled.

The actor shared that he plans to gift the trophy to his mother. His family had been thrilled simply by his nomination, never expecting a win. “My sister cried when she saw it. My mother was completely shocked,” he said.

Friends from his hometown in Busan also played a meaningful role. Known for their blunt expressions, they surprised him by openly praising his achievement. “They told me not to come back home anymore just keep acting,” he laughed.

From Boxing Ring to Big Screen

Before becoming an actor, Ahn Bo-hyun was a promising boxing athlete, representing Busan and competing in national tournaments with dreams of winning an Olympic medal. Persistent injuries forced him to quit in his senior year of high school, leading him down an unexpected path.

Inspired by the 2005 film Crying Fist, Ahn Bo-hyun began dreaming of acting. He later transitioned into modeling in 2007, leveraging his tall frame and athletic build before gradually moving into television and film.

“That movie made me wonder if I could one day play a boxer on screen,” he said. “Directors Ryoo Seung-wan and actor Ryoo Seung-bum unknowingly gave me a new dream.”

A “Reversal” Role That Changed Everything

Critics praised Ahn Bo-hyun’s performance in Devil Has Moved In for breaking away from his usual strong, intimidating roles.

“People said, ‘You’re good at playing pathetic characters too,’” Ahn Bo-hyun said with a smile. “It felt like a compliment. This role helped me grow and made me realize I can keep challenging myself.”

He also expressed gratitude toward co-star YoonA, praising her warmth and professionalism. “She’s beautiful inside and out. Working with her made the chemistry feel natural,” he said, adding that he hopes to reunite with her in a future project.

The Viral “Park Jung-min Birthday” Moment

Beyond his award win, Ahn Bo-hyun unexpectedly went viral for his enthusiastic reaction to a Blue Dragon congratulatory performance by Park Jung-min and Hwasa, earning jokes that he looked like a guest at “Park Jung-min’s first birthday party.”

“I didn’t plan to attend Park Jung-min’s ‘dol-janchi,’ but somehow I did,” Ahn joked. “I was just genuinely enjoying the performance.”

For Ahn Bo-hyun, the Blue Dragon award represents more than recognition it marks a new beginning.

“This feels like a turning point and a new starting line,” he said. “I want to become an actor known for variety and depth. In 2026, I plan to show many different sides of myself.”

With his sincerity, versatility, and growing body of work, Ahn Bo-hyun’s rise as one of Korean cinema’s most promising actors is clearly just beginning.

Sources: Sports Chosun