The controversy over historical distortion and accuracy erupted during the coronation scene of Grand Prince Ian in episode 11, which aired on the 15th. Critics pointed out the use of the ‘nine-ringed crown,’ symbolizing a tributary relationship with China, instead of the ‘twelve-ringed crown’ representing an independent state. Additionally, the scene where officials shouted ‘Cheonse’ (thousand years), reminiscent of a vassal state, instead of ‘Manse’ (ten thousand years), which symbolizes a sovereign nation, sparked heavy criticism. The Chinese-style tea ceremony depicted in the show was also flagged.
In response, during a group viewing event for the final episode of ’21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife’ on the 16th, IU became teary-eyed, stating, “These days, I feel that I need to take more responsibility and do better.” On the 18th, she posted a formal apology on social media, stating, “I am IU, who played the role of Seong Hee-joo in ’21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife’.”
Global fans are now defending the stars. On X (formerly Twitter), @sooyaland103 asked, “Why do actresses always have to apologize and take all the responsibility?” while @khyyooon added, “The actress just did her job; why should she apologize when there’s a problem with the drama?” @tommiez12 directly criticized the production, saying, “She drew in viewers with her name alone, but the writer who wrote this hole-filled script and the director who didn’t fix it should take all the criticism.”
Some fans were particularly upset about the timing. @kdrama_outofbox expressed anger, saying, “MBC will fall for making IU apologize on her birthday,” and @ayiiyuuu shared their sadness, noting, “It was her birthday, but we received an apology letter. I’m so angry.” On Reddit, @Tomo_pomo pointed to structural issues in the Korean entertainment industry, stating, “It seems like being a scapegoat for all mistakes is included in actors’ job descriptions. It’s not surprising that the suicide rate in the Korean acting community is high due to this kind of pressure.”
A Reddit user who summarized the historical context also gained significant attention. @sureyoudo0 explained the specific issues, such as the Chinese-style tea ceremony, the use of ‘Cheonse’ instead of ‘Manse,’ and the nine-ringed crown, adding, “I understand that Korean sentiments were hurt, but this is not something the actors should be responsible for.”
@Borinquena analyzed, “Considering the historical context of King Gojong declaring an empire to strengthen Joseon’s sovereignty, it’s understandable why Koreans react sensitively. However, the production team in charge of costumes and historical research should have known better. The actors don’t need to apologize.”
While it was a minority opinion, some viewed IU’s apology positively. Reddit user @hilllllllly supported her, saying, “I think apologizing is a classy move. One must realize how serious historical distortion controversies can be in Korean dramas. She wants to be taken seriously as an actress.”
Southeast Asian fans from Indonesia and the Philippines also reacted actively on X. A tweet by @sejiyt, which summarized the controversy in Indonesian, went viral, and @blueming_day appealed to fans, saying, “IU and Byeon Woo-seok have already apologized. Can we stop now?” The Philippine Star also reported on the controversy, adding to the global interest.
The MBC Friday-Saturday drama ’21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife’ (Written by Yoo Ji-won / Directed by Park Jun-hwa and Bae Hee-young) concluded its 12-episode run on the 16th with a high viewership rating of 13.8%.
