IU reflects on love amid ongoing public relationship with Lee Jong Suk “Love is not about wanting to be understood”

Singer and actress IU shared candid thoughts about love, drawing attention as she continues her public relationship with actor Lee Jong Suk.

On May 12, content released on IU’s official YouTube channel featured behind-the-scenes footage from the MBC drama 'Perfect Crown,' titled 'Tears over this week’s final episode. ‘Perfect Crown’ Behind-the-Scenes.' The video captured IU on set as she portrayed her character, Seong Hui Ju, delivering emotionally charged performances.

In one scene, her character discovers a contract marriage and later seeks help from her father. After filming, IU reflected on her character’s emotional state, saying that Seong Hui Ju had “abandoned all pride in front of love,” and expressing hope that Grand Prince Ian would understand her feelings.

She then shifted to a personal interpretation of love, stating, “Seeing someone wanting to be understood means they might not fully love yet. Love is not something that depends on being understood.” When producers asked whether this perspective belonged to IU herself or her character, she clarified, “It’s my philosophy.” She added that Seong Hui Ju likely does not yet have such beliefs because she has never truly experienced love.

The remarks drew attention as IU is currently in a publicly acknowledged relationship with IU. She and Lee Jong Suk confirmed their relationship in December 2022. At the time, Lee Jong Suk sparked speculation during his acceptance speech at the '2022 MBC Drama Awards' following his role in 'Big Mouth,' which later led to the official announcement that the two had transitioned from long-time acquaintances to a couple.

Meanwhile, IU stars alongside Byeon Woo Seok in 'Perfect Crown,' which is approaching its finale. As interest grows in both the drama’s romantic storyline and IU’s personal reflections on love, anticipation is building ahead of the final episode. MBC’s 'Perfect Crown' is scheduled to air its last episode on May 15 at 9:50 PM.