The '2025 SBS Entertainment Awards' is drawing intense attention due to controversy over the Grand Prize winner. On the 30th, at the SBS Prism Tower in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, the ceremony was hosted by Jun Hyun-moo, Cha Tae-hyun, and Lee Su-ji, where Lee Sang-min won the Grand Prize. Lee Sang-min earned the honor, surpassing strong contenders Seo Jang-hoon and Ji Seok-jin.

In his acceptance speech, Lee Sang-min said, "The first recording of 'My Ugly Duckling' started in a rented apartment without air conditioning. I never imagined that my difficult life would be loved by so many people." He added that he never expected to be able to pay off his debts through the show. He also shared an emotional story, saying, "My beloved mother passed away, and I closed a difficult chapter. This year, I also got married to the person I love."

Lee Sang-min expressed his bewilderment, saying, "Every year was ambiguous, but this year was the most ambiguous. On 'Dolsing Fourmen,' I just enjoyed what the producers prepared. I showed myself as I am, and to be given such an opportunity..." He conveyed his gratitude to SBS, adding, "I wish I could have received this award together with Seo Jang-hoon and Ji Seok-jin hyungs. I really didn't expect to win."

However, doubts and backlash over Lee Sang-min's Grand Prize win are growing. In particular, controversy has arisen over the neglect of Ji Seok-jin, who has been a nominee for several years but has never won. Ji Seok-jin recently experienced the loss of his mother just a week ago and struggled while wearing a character wig. He even expressed anxiety, saying, "If I don't win today, it will look really bad."

SBS mentioned Ji Seok-jin's chances right up until the Grand Prize announcement, but the final choice was Lee Sang-min. Many expressed regret, saying that Seo Jang-hoon would have been a more convincing choice for the Grand Prize. Seo Jang-hoon is the MC of 'My Ugly Duckling' and is active in three programs, including 'Bae Bully Hills' and 'Cohabitation Blind Date,' which is set to premiere on January 1.

On the other hand, Lee Sang-min is effectively continuing only his solo appearance on 'My Ugly Duckling' following the cancellation of 'Dolsing Fourmen.' The cancellation was significantly influenced by the marriages of Lee Sang-min and other members of the Dolsing group. Since the basic concept of 'My Ugly Duckling' is a reality show observing single men, questions have been raised about Lee Sang-min's fixed appearance after remarriage.

There are criticisms that topics Lee Sang-min revealed this year, such as his wife, IVF plans, and sperm tests, could also be covered in other SBS programs like 'Same Bed, Different Dreams 2.' Amid ongoing debates about the justification for his appearances, viewers' dissatisfaction with SBS's decision to award Lee Sang-min the Grand Prize does not seem likely to subside easily.

While acknowledging Lee Sang-min's contributions is possible, voices are saying that an award with a different title would have been more appropriate than the Grand Prize. Such controversy may raise questions about the fairness of future SBS Entertainment Awards. Viewers are demanding more transparent and fair evaluations in upcoming ceremonies.