[1] The awards were introduced in 1965 by Chang Key-young, the founder of the newspaper Hankook Ilbo, whose art name was "Baeksang".

[2][3] It was established for the development of Korean popular culture and art and for enhancing the morale of artists.

[5][6] Baeksang Arts Awards are annually presented at a ceremony organised by JoongAng Group in the second quarter of each year.

[5] Until 2021, it was organised by Ilgan Sports before its acquisition by eDaily [ko], a subsidiary of KG Group.

[7] It is the only comprehensive awards ceremony in the country, recognising excellence in film, television and theatre.