Singer and actress IU has finally bowed her head, directly addressing the fierce historical-accuracy controversy surrounding the drama she leads.
On the 18th, IU posted a lengthy statement on her Instagram, officially apologizing over the escalating claims of historical distortion in MBC’s Friday–Saturday drama Perfect Crown that have erupted among viewers.
In her statement, IU wrote, "As the lead actor, I failed to show the responsibility expected of me and seem to have caused great disappointment. I am deeply sorry and heavy-hearted." She continued, "Regarding the various historical accuracy issues in the drama that you pointed out, I admit without excuse that I did not reflect deeply enough and proceeded with my performance. I reflect on this and apologize."
She added, "Because this project aimed to capture imagination grounded in our own history and the traditional beauty of Korea, I, as an actor, should have read the script more carefully and studied more—but I failed to do so, which I am ashamed of. I will keep the criticisms and opinions in mind and approach future projects with greater care and thorough preparation."
From its early episodes, Perfect Crown faced nonstop criticism over the leads’ acting, its world-building, and multiple historical-accuracy issues.
The controversy peaked in Episode 11, which aired on the 15th. In the scene depicting Grand Prince Ian (played by Byeon Woo Seok) ascending the throne, officials shouted "cheonse"—a term used for a vassal state’s ruler—instead of "manse," which is reserved for a sovereign of an independent nation. The king was also shown wearing a nine-stringed myeonryugwan (ceremonial crown), which is a step below the emperor’s twelve-stringed version. On top of that, viewers spotted elements of a Chinese-style tea ceremony. Outraged viewers argued the show "imposed a Chinese hierarchy onto a fictional Republic of Korea with a constitutional monarchy."
As the situation intensified, the production team also bowed their heads on the official website. They admitted fault, saying, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern due to the world-building and historical-accuracy issues. We failed to carefully examine the evolution of Joseon-era protocols." They further explained that Perfect Crown is "a romance that also has traits of an alternate-history work," adding, "We should have approached the intersections of the fictional world and real historical context with greater caution and rigor." They promised to swiftly revise the relevant audio and subtitles in reruns, VOD, and OTT services.
Meanwhile, Perfect Crown achieved commercial success with a nationwide peak rating of 13.8% according to Nielsen Korea, but wrapped up on a bittersweet note amid intense controversy over historical inaccuracies.