IU and Byeon Woo-seok delivered another emotional episode in Perfect Crown, as their characters struggled to protect each other amid growing political chaos and public scandal.
According to Nielsen Korea, Episode 9 of the MBC Friday-Saturday drama recorded its highest ratings yet, achieving 11.9% in the Seoul metropolitan area, 11.7% nationwide, and 5.1% among the key 20–54 demographic. The drama also ranked No. 1 across all Friday programs in every major ratings category, earning a “triple crown.” Its peak minute rating reportedly soared to 13.4%.
The latest episode focused on Sung Hee-joo (IU), who found herself under intense scrutiny after her marriage contract with Grand Prince Ian (Byeon Woo-seok) was leaked to the public.
As rumors rapidly spread, public opinion turned increasingly hostile. Prime Minister Min Jung-woo, played by Noh Sang-hyun, pressured Ian to step down from his regency duties, while Queen Dowager Yoon Yi-rang (Gong Seung-yeon) and Yoon Sung-won (Jo Jae-yoon) intensified their attacks against the royal couple.
The episode also revealed shocking truths behind the conspiracy.
Min Jung-woo and Yoon Yi-rang were exposed as the masterminds behind the leaked contract scandal. Jung-woo, who had long harbored feelings for Hee-joo, sought to separate her from Ian, while Yi-rang aimed to conceal the late king’s wish to transfer the throne.
Adding to the tension, viewers also learned that the poisoning attempt during the wedding ceremony had been orchestrated by Yoon Yi-rang’s father, Yoon Sung-won.
Despite the mounting threats, Hee-joo and Ian continued prioritizing each other’s safety above all else. Afraid of becoming burdens to one another, the couple still tried to comfort each other whenever they were together, making their emotional bond even more heartbreaking.
As the controversy began affecting Castle Group as well, Hee-joo desperately sought help from Min Jung-woo.
“I love him. Very much,” she confessed honestly while asking him to help protect Ian.
However, Jung-woo coldly rejected her plea, replying: “That’s unfortunate.”
In one of the episode’s most emotional moments, Hee-joo later knelt before her father Sung Hyun-guk (Jo Seung-yeon) and tearfully begged for help.
When he asked whether she wanted to save herself or Ian, she chose Ian without hesitation, revealing the depth of her love.
Meanwhile, Ian silently endured increasing political pressure from both Min Jung-woo and Yoon Yi-rang. Even while struggling emotionally, he tried to comfort Hee-joo and maintain warmth between them.
But the episode ended with a devastating twist.
Holding back tears, Hee-joo quietly told Ian: “Let’s get divorced.”
Ian was left visibly shaken by the unexpected declaration, leaving viewers eager to discover what lies ahead for the tragic royal couple.
Episode 10 of Perfect Crown airs on May 9 at 9:40 PM KST on MBC.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠투데이
You must be logged in to post a comment.