MBC’s ’21st Century Daegun Buin’, which achieved record-breaking ratings and explosive popularity, has come under heavy fire over controversies regarding the ‘Cheonse era name’ and ‘Chinese-style tea ceremony’ direction. Director Park Jun-hwa held an interview on the 19th, where he repeatedly bowed his head and broke down in tears.
While some scheduled interviews with the cast were abruptly canceled following the drama’s finale, Director Park did not hide. Throughout the interview, with a dark expression and a trembling voice, he stated, “I am sorry,” “I am reflecting on my actions,” and “There is no excuse,” taking full responsibility for the situation.
At the heart of the controversy is the ‘Cheonse era name’ used during Prince Ian’s (Byeon Woo-seok) coronation scene in episode 11. Critics argued it was a “vassal state expression” that undermined independent historical identity. Additionally, the use of Chinese-style tea sets in a royal tea scene in the same episode sparked strong backlash from viewers sensitive to “cultural appropriation” issues.
His tears were more than just a simple explanation. It was a moment where his apology to the actors and staff who trusted him, combined with the guilt of disappointing the viewers who loved the work, all came crashing down. Director Park stated, “It is not the actors who should apologize, but me. I was the one who made the final decision, and this result happened because of my shortcomings.”
He continued to wipe away tears with tissues, saying, “If it had ended with a positive evaluation, the efforts of the actors and staff would have been properly rewarded, and I am so sorry that wasn’t the case.” He added that it was most painful to think of the viewers who enjoyed the drama with their families and acquaintances who had previously told him it felt like reading a romance comic. He concluded, unable to continue speaking, “I don’t want to make excuses; I just feel sorry.”
