The 39th Golden Disc Awards: Entertainment and Social Responsibility

The 39th Golden Disc Awards will be held in Fukuoka, Japan, in January 2025. However, following the tragic Jeju Air crash, South Korea has declared a national mourning period, leading to changes in the awards schedule. This situation raises an important question: how should the entertainment industry shoulder its social responsibilities?
Entertainment isn't just about fun and excitement; it's deeply intertwined with society and its cultural phenomena.

The Social Responsibility of Entertainment goes beyond amusing audiences. It calls for awareness and sensitivity to pressing societal issues.
Recent events are a reminder of how crucial this responsibility is. The entertainment industry, both in Korea and globally, must engage with these challenges thoughtfully and responsibly.

An Expert’s Perspective: Entertainment Meets Responsibility

G. Kevin: "Entertainment is profoundly connected to societal dynamics. The Golden Disc Awards’ decision to adjust its schedule exemplifies this connection. Fulfilling social responsibility means more than just following trends—it’s about being attuned to societal issues. Globally, major awards like the Grammys make significant efforts to highlight social themes. Korea’s entertainment sector can draw valuable lessons from these practices."

Cultural Comparisons: Korean vs. Global Entertainment

In recent years, Korea’s entertainment industry has gained worldwide recognition.
However, when it comes to addressing social issues, there’s still room for improvement.
In regions like the U.S. and Europe, incorporating social messages has become a central responsibility for entertainers and producers alike.
Korean entertainment can benefit from aligning with these global expectations.

IVE Departing from Incheon Airport

The upcoming Golden Disc Awards isn’t just an event—it serves as a moment of reflection on the entertainment industry’s role in society.
It sets a powerful example of how entertainment can harmonize with societal responsibilities and cultural values.
Through such changes, Korea’s entertainment industry is poised to take its place on an even more mature and meaningful global stage.

About the 39th Golden Disc Awards...

  • The Golden Disc Awards is one of Korea’s premier music ceremonies, held annually.
  • Winners are determined by album sales and music streaming data.
  • The 39th edition will take place on January 4-5, 2025, in Fukuoka, Japan.
  • The broadcasting schedule was revised following the Jeju Air crash tragedy.
  • This year’s ceremony highlights the importance of social responsibility within the entertainment sector.