LayarHijau – The race for the Asia Star Award at the 21st Seoul International Drama Awards (SDA) ended with a dramatic upset. Chinese actor Yang Yang surged past Zhang Linghe during the final 24 hours of voting to claim the fan-voted popularity award.
Voting for the Asia Star Award’s China region began in mid-June 2026. Throughout nearly the entire voting period, Zhang Linghe maintained a comfortable lead thanks to the immense popularity of his historical drama Pursuit of Jade. He remained in first place for 29 consecutive days, leading many fans to believe the outcome was already decided.
Support Layar Hijau
Layar Hijau is an independent media outlet dedicated to sharing news and stories about the Asian dramas you love. If you enjoy our content, your support helps us keep going and bring more stories to fellow drama fans.
Every bit of support means a lot to us. Thank you for reading, following, and being part of Layar Hijau's journey.
For supporters in Indonesia
For international supporters
For more information, click here.
However, the competition took a dramatic turn in the final day of voting. Yang Yang’s fanbase launched a massive last-minute voting campaign, pushing his total past Zhang Linghe’s and securing a stunning comeback victory.
According to the official results, Yang Yang received approximately 1.88 million votes to win the Asia Star Award. His total not only surpassed Zhang Linghe’s but also set a new voting record for the category this year.
Many fans celebrated the victory as the perfect gift for Yang Yang, who has been drawing widespread attention for his portrayal of Han Li in the fantasy drama The Immortal Ascension (凡人修仙传).
It is worth noting that the Asia Star Award is a global fan-voted popularity prize that reflects an actor’s international fan appeal rather than professional evaluation.
By contrast, competitive categories such as Best Actor are decided by an international panel of judges and are not influenced by online voting.
Both Yang Yang and Zhang Linghe have advanced to the preliminary selection for the Best Actor category at the 21st Seoul International Drama Awards through their respective works. The official nominees are expected to be announced in August 2026, while the awards ceremony will take place on October 8, 2026, at KBS Hall in Seoul, South Korea.
Chinese dramas products
Rosy Zhao Rosydoedian Authentic Dachshund Plush Doll Squeaky Soft Stuffed Decorative Throw Pillow Collectible Gift
Authenthic Dachshund plush doll from Zhao Lusi's Rosydoedian.
It's only available for shipping to certain countries.
Official Genuine Pursuit of Jade Drama Collectible Photocards Zhang Linghe Tian Xiwei Photo Trading Cards Holiday Gift
Official genuine collectible photocards These Pursuit of Jade Drama collectible photocards are officially licensed and authentic, featuring beloved characters Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Perfect for fans seeking genuine memorabilia from the popular drama.
New Drama Fangs Of Fortune Official Merch Collectible Cards Zhao Yuanzhou, Wen Xiao Characters HD Photocard Cosplay Gift
Official Merchandise from Fangs of Fortune This collectible card set is officially licensed Fangs of Fortune merchandise, featuring beloved characters Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao in high-definition detail for true fans.
