Disney+ / Hulu’s Perfect Crown actors IU and Byeon Woo Seok apologized for the series’ historical inaccuracies in the 11th episode of the romantic K-drama, which aired on May 15. The series finale concluded on May 16.
The “controversial” episode depicted a coronation for Byeon’s character, Grand Prince Yi An, as he ascended the throne in a fictional 21st-century “constitutional monarchy” in South Korea. During the episode, the government officials chanted “Cheonse,” a term historically used for subordinate states rather than “Manse,” which is used for independent sovereign nations. Critics also felt the depiction of the ‘Guryu Myeonryugwan’ crown (a traditional royal headpiece historically associated with vassal state rituals) was incorrect.
Both IU and Byeon wrote letters in Korean posted on their individual Instagram pages on Sunday night, addressing the “controversy.”
In her letter, IU says she read every comment left by the show’s viewers and apologizes for not taking responsibility as the lead actress in this production.
“My heart remains heavy even now,” she states. “I sincerely reflect and apologize without excuse for not contemplating more deeply regarding the historical accuracy issues pointed out by viewers and proceeding with my role as an actor.”
She shares that she aims to capture the imagination rooted in South Korea’s unique history and traditional beauty. She apologized, expressed gratitude to the fans who watched the production through to the end, and “did not hesitate to share their thoughts,” and will strive to approach her work with greater caution and thoroughness in the future.
Byeon wrote something similar, sharing with a heavy heart and concern that his words might initially have caused further harm to the situation, but he felt he needed to address it. He states that while filming the project, he did not fully consider the historical context, meaning, or how viewers might perceive it.
“I took time to reflect on myself after reading the audience’s feedback,” he states in the letter, apologizing for his error. “I’ve realized once again that as an actor, I need to go beyond just acting and take responsibility for understanding the message and context of the work I’m part of.”
He thanks the fans for their support, especially those who offered constructive feedback. He will take it to heart for his future projects.
While these events in the episode may not be considered serious by Hollywood, given Hollywood’s many historically inaccurate portrayals of shows, movies, and characters, South Korean audiences take them seriously, especially when the series stars two of Korea’s biggest actors. It has also been anticipated since its first announcement, and since its premiere on April 10, it has garnered more than 43 million hours of viewing globally across Disney+ and Hulu to date. The series is the top Korean title of all time on Disney+ and Hulu globally, hitting No. 1 in the US, Canada, EMEA, and LATAM, Germany, Spain, the UK, Italy, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Japan. Domestically, ‘Perfect Crown’ concluded its run on May 16 with a peak nationwide household viewership rating of 13.8%, according to Nielsen Korea.
The Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) urged Disney+ and Hulu to edit the streaming episodes to prevent misrepresentation, as the series could influence global viewers. The Korean streaming service edited the scene out on their platform but is waiting to hear back regarding episode 11, which is shown overseas and still has the scene.
Set in a fictional 21st-century constitutional monarchy, Perfect Crown follows Grand Prince Yi-An as he is pressured to marry to prevent a power struggle in the royal household. He strikes a deal with Huiju (IU), the heir to a Korean conglomerate, to marry for convenience and advance their careers. But, just like any K-drama, feelings develop, and you know the rest of the story.
All 12 episodes of Perfect Crown are available to stream on Disney+/Hulu.