What was supposed to be a moment of celebration at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards rapidly devolved into an unforgettable and delightfully chaotic scene starring popular actors Lee Junyoung and Lee Jun Hyuk. The surprising mix-up during the Upbit Popularity Award reveal had both the audience and online viewers laughing, and it has since become one of the night’s most viral moments.
As the winners of the fan-voted popularity awards were being revealed, the camera cut to actor Lee Jun Hyuk. But confusion soon spread across his face, as it appeared he wasn’t entirely sure whether his name had actually been called. Jun Hyuk, unsure what to do, paused before slowly making his way to the stage, evidently urged by people surrounding him.
Lee Jun Hyuk at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards. Credit: X
Meanwhile, actor Lee Junyoung, best renowned for his successful transition from idol to actor and energetic stage presence, had already arrived, boldly taking the award and smiling. But just as IU was about to take the stage for her own victory, fans witnessed something strange: Lee Jun Hyuk was now heading back down the steps, clearly bewildered, as if realizing the moment wasn’t his after all.
Lee Junyoung at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards. Credit: X
And then came the twist.
The official announcement confirmed that it was indeed Lee Jun Hyuk who had won the award. Realizing the mix-up, a shocked Lee Junyoung quickly descended from the stage, trophy in hand, to deliver it personally to Jun Hyuk – prompting laughter, applause, and no small amount of secondhand embarrassment.
Lee Junyoung’s (R) mix-up with Lee Jun-hyuk (L). Credit: X
The video of the incident went viral online, with netizens calling it one of the most memorable award ceremony gaffes in recent memory. Many appreciated Lee Junyoung’s graceful answer and swift reflexes, while others couldn’t help but laugh at the overall strangeness of the situation.
Later, both stars took to social media to explain the situation and reassure fans. They explained that the uncertainty was caused by a mispronunciation of the name, combined with the fast pace of the event. Far from keeping grudges, the two laughed it off, with fans sharing their words on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Lee Junhyuk IG story replied Junyoung’s IG story:
“Junyoung-ah thanks to you it was fun, don’t worry to much. I also made same mistake during AAA. It must be fate. Let’s eat together next time 👍🏻” https://t.co/Kpl3Eaw3iQ pic.twitter.com/RykLg5KGVk
— J♡❀ (@adorejunyoung) July 18, 2025
However, there were some who criticized the situation. Fans expressed dissatisfaction with the event’s MCs for their pronunciation that casued the issue, while others blamed the production team for enabling such a mix-up to happen in the first place.
MC should’ve be careful when announcing names of the winner. This kind of mistake is dumb and its pretty disrespectful for both of the actors. How did you not even tell him it was NOT his award that he had to check it and give the trophy himself to the other actor?
#이준영 pic.twitter.com/iBN0s2TFat
— 97✭ (@junyoungies) July 18, 2025
Nonetheless, the majority rallied behind the performers, claiming they had nothing to answer for and praising them for handling the issue with maturity and humor.
In the end, what should have been an unpleasant gaffe became a strangely endearing reminder that even glamorous award events are subject to good old-fashioned human error – and that a little confusion can lead to the most legendary moments.
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