IU and Byeon Woo Seok Apologize Amid ‘Perfect Crown’ Controversy as Writer Yoo Ji Won Faces Backlash

IU and Byeon Woo Seok publicly apologized for the growing controversy surrounding the drama 'Perfect Crown,' taking responsibility as the series’s lead actors.

MBC’s Friday-Saturday drama 'Perfect Crown' (written by Yoo Ji Won and directed by Park Joon Hwa and Bae Hee Young) concluded its 12-episode run on May 16 with a strong 13.8% viewership rating. However, the series continues to face criticism even after its finale.

The drama drew major attention throughout its run, with ratings steadily climbing day after day. However, viewers remained sharply divided over its fictional constitutional monarchy setting, and the debate eventually escalated into accusations of historical distortion and inaccurate depictions.

The series had already come under fire for portraying Chinese-style tea ceremony customs. In Episode 11, which aired on May 15, additional controversy erupted during the royal coronation scene. Prince I An, played by Byeon Woo Seok, was shown wearing a “guryumyeongwan,” a ceremonial crown historically worn by Chinese officials, instead of the “sibimyeonryugwan” reserved for emperors of sovereign nations. Furthermore, officials in the scene shouted “Cheonse,” a term associated with vassal states, instead of “Manse,” a symbol tied to an independent nation, sparking fierce backlash.

During a group viewing event for the drama’s finale on May 16, IU became emotional while addressing fans, saying, “These days, I’ve been thinking even more that I need to take greater responsibility and do better.”

On May 18, IU also posted a formal apology on social media.

She wrote: 

"Over the past few days, I carefully read each and every message left by viewers. As the lead actor in this project, I am deeply sorry and heavy-hearted for having disappointed many people by failing to show a more responsible attitude.

I sincerely reflect on and apologize, without excuse, for approaching the role without first considering the various historical inaccuracies in the drama that many viewers pointed out.

Because this was a project that aimed to portray imaginative storytelling rooted in our unique history and the traditional beauty of Korea, I should have studied and reviewed the script more carefully as an actor. I am ashamed that I failed to do so. I did not recognize the seriousness of these issues in advance. I am truly sorry.

I would also like to thank everyone who stayed with the drama until the very end and did not hesitate to share their thoughts. I will always remember the valuable criticism and opinions you have given me, and I will approach future projects with greater care and responsibility.

Once again, I sincerely apologize."

Byeon Woo Seok also shared an apology through his personal Instagram account the same day.

He wrote:

"Hello, this is actor Byeon Woo Seok.

Over the weekend, I was worried that anything I said might cause further harm. With a heavy heart, I am writing this message to those who felt discomfort and concern because of the project.

During the filming and acting process, I failed to think deeply enough about the historical context and meaning contained in the work, and how it could be received by viewers. Through the comments and criticism from viewers, I came to reflect and look back on myself. It reminded me once again that, as an actor, I need to approach not only my performance but also the message and context of a project with greater responsibility and thoughtfulness.

I sincerely apologize.

I would also like to once again thank everyone who loved and supported 'Perfect Crown' and Prince I An, and who offered advice along the way. Moving forward, I will become an actor who approaches projects with greater care and deeper consideration. I am truly sorry.

Sincerely,
Byeon Woo Seok"