Singer and actress IU and actor Byeon Woo Seok have both personally apologized following the growing historical distortion controversy surrounding MBC drama Perfect Crown.
On May 18, IU posted a lengthy statement on her personal account, directly addressing the criticism surrounding the drama’s historical inaccuracies.
The actress wrote, “Over the past few days, I carefully read every comment left by viewers. As the lead actress of the project, I feel deeply sorry for failing to show a more responsible attitude and for causing great disappointment. My heart still feels very heavy.”
She continued by admitting that she failed to think deeply enough about the historical issues pointed out by viewers while preparing for the role.
“There is no excuse for not reflecting more carefully on the historical inaccuracies raised by viewers before approaching the role. Since this was a project that aimed to combine imagination based on our history with the beauty of Korean traditions, I should have studied the script more thoroughly and approached it with greater caution as an actress. I feel ashamed of myself for not doing so. I failed to recognize the seriousness of the issue in advance. I sincerely apologize,” IU stated.
The actress also thanked viewers who continued watching the drama despite the controversy.
“I sincerely thank everyone who stayed with the drama until the end and did not hesitate to share their opinions. I will remember all of your valuable criticism and feedback, and I will become an actress who approaches future projects more carefully and responsibly. Once again, I am sorry,” she added.
IU starred in MBC’s Friday-Saturday drama Perfect Crown, which concluded on May 16 with a peak nationwide rating of 13.8% according to Nielsen Korea.
Despite the strong ratings and popularity, the series faced constant criticism throughout its broadcast over historical inaccuracies and acting controversies involving some cast members. In particular, episode 11 sparked major backlash after featuring elements such as the use of “Cheonse” during Grand Prince Ian’s coronation ceremony and the appearance of ceremonial attire associated with tributary states, leading to accusations of historical distortion and controversy related to Northeast Project concerns.
On the same day, Byeon Woo Seok also released a handwritten apology through his personal social media account.
The actor revealed that he had spent the weekend worrying that any statement he made might unintentionally create further harm.
“I am writing this with a heavy heart to those who felt discomfort and concern because of the drama,” he wrote.
Byeon Woo Seok admitted that he had not fully considered the historical context and significance embedded within the project during filming.
“During the filming and acting process, I lacked sufficient consideration regarding the historical context and meaning contained in the work and how it could be received by viewers. Through viewers’ criticism, I have reflected deeply and realized once again that, as an actor, I need to take greater responsibility not only for my acting but also for the message and context carried by a project. I sincerely apologize,” he stated.
The actor also expressed gratitude toward viewers who supported both the drama and his character Grand Prince Ian.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who loved and advised ‘Perfect Crown’ and Grand Prince Ian. I will become an actor who approaches future projects with greater care and deeper thought. I am truly sorry,” he added.
Byeon Woo Seok played the male lead Grand Prince Ian in the recently concluded drama. Although the series ended with its highest ratings during the final episode, the controversy surrounding its historical portrayal continued to intensify even after the finale aired.
As criticism surrounding historical representation in Korean dramas continues to grow more sensitive among viewers, both IU and Byeon Woo Seok’s public apologies have become a major topic of discussion across online communities and social media platforms.
Sources: Nate
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