On May 19, Byeon Woo Seok attended the press conference for Netflix’s new variety show Yoo Jae Suk Camp held at JW Marriott Dongdaemun in Seoul.

During the event, the actor briefly addressed the growing criticism surrounding the MBC drama.

“I sincerely apologize regarding the issues related to the project,” he said with a serious expression.

Yoo Jae Suk Camp follows rookie campsite owner Yoo Jae Suk alongside unpredictable staff members Lee Kwang Soo, Byeon Woo Seok, and Ji Ye Eun as they spend time with guests through chaotic camp activities and games.

Speaking about joining his first fixed-cast variety program, Byeon Woo Seok shared his excitement about showing viewers a different side of himself.

“I’ve always loved watching variety shows, and I was excited because I thought I could show a new side of myself for the first time,” he explained. “More than anything, I was thrilled to work with Yoo Jae Suk sunbaenim, Kwang Soo hyung, and Ye Eun.”

He added that many fans enjoy seeing his everyday personality, which motivated him to challenge himself despite feeling nervous.

“I thought ‘Yoo Jae Suk Camp’ would be a good opportunity to show those natural sides of myself,” he said.

However, attention at the event inevitably shifted toward the controversy surrounding Perfect Crown, where Byeon Woo Seok starred alongside IU.

Although the drama concluded with a strong nationwide final rating of 13.8% according to Nielsen Korea, it became heavily criticized for alleged historical distortion and concerns related to China’s Northeast Project controversy.

The backlash intensified after Episode 11 featured a coronation scene in which the king wore a guryumyeonryugwan — traditionally associated with vassal states — while officials shouted “Cheonse” instead of the imperial expression “Manse.”

The series had already faced criticism over historical inaccuracies, costume verification issues, and world-building concerns, making the scene even more controversial among viewers.

Following the backlash, both Byeon Woo Seok and IU released formal apology statements, while the drama’s cast reportedly canceled all scheduled post-finale interviews.

On May 18, Byeon Woo Seok also posted an apology through social media.

“I deeply reflect on and sincerely apologize for acting without more carefully considering the historical verification issues that viewers pointed out,” he wrote.

At the press conference, the actor once again emphasized his regret.

“I always try to live with the mindset of doing my best in every moment,” he said. “I also did my best while filming ‘Yoo Jae Suk Camp,’ and I hope viewers can enjoy the show for what it is.”

He concluded by adding, “As for the issues related to the drama, I truly feel sorry.”

Meanwhile, Yoo Jae Suk Camp is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on May 26.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스