Singer and actress IU and actor Byeon Woo Seok have both personally apologized following the growing historical distortion controversy surrounding the 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: “In the last few days I have carefully read every comment left by viewers. As the lead actress of the project, I feel deeply sorry for not having shown a more responsible attitude and for having caused great disappointment. My heart is still very heavy.”
She went on to admit that she failed to think deeply enough about the historical issues highlighted by viewers while preparing for the role.
“There is no excuse for not thinking more carefully about 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 more caution as an actress. I am ashamed of myself for not doing so. I did not recognize the severity of the problem in advance. I sincerely apologize.” the UI said.
The actress also thanked the viewers who continued to watch 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 your valuable criticism and feedback and become an actress who approaches future projects more carefully and responsibly. Once again, I’m sorry.” he added.
IU starred in MBC’s Friday-Saturday drama Perfect crownwhich ended on May 16 with a peak domestic rating of 13.8% according to Nielsen Korea.
Despite strong ratings and popularity, the series faced ongoing criticism during its broadcast for historical inaccuracies and acting controversies involving some cast members. In particular, episode 11 sparked strong negative reactions after featuring elements such as the use of “Cheonse” during the coronation ceremony of Grand Prince Ian and the appearance of ceremonial robes associated with tributary states, leading to accusations of historical distortion and controversy relating to Project Northeast concerns.
On the same day, Byeon Woo Seok also released a handwritten apology through his personal social media account.
The actor revealed that he spent the weekend fearing that any statement he made could unintentionally create further harm.
“I write this with a heavy heart to those who have felt discomfort and concern due to the drama,” he wrote.
Byeon Woo Seok admitted that he did not fully consider the historical context and meaning incorporated into the project when filming.
“During the filming and acting process, I lacked sufficient consideration regarding the historical context and meaning contained in the work and how it might be received by viewers. Through criticism from viewers, I thought deeply and realized once again that, as an actor, I must take greater responsibility not only for my acting but also for the message and context a project brings. I sincerely apologize.” he stated.
The actor also expressed gratitude towards viewers who supported both the drama and his character, Grand Prince Ian.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who loved and recommended ‘Perfect crown‘ and High Prince Ian. I will become an actor who approaches future projects with greater care and deeper thought. I’m really sorry” he added.
Byeon Woo Seok played the male lead, Grand Prince Ian, in the recently concluded drama series. Although the series ended with the highest ratings during the final episode, the controversy over its historical depiction continued to intensify even after the finale aired.
As criticisms of historical representation in Korean dramas continue to become more sensitive among viewers, both IU and Byeon Woo Seok’s public apologies have become a major topic of discussion in online communities and social media platforms.
Sources: Nate
