The Korean drama Perfect Crown has found itself at the center of a major controversy after viewers accused the series of distorting Korean history and undermining the country’s sovereignty. The backlash intensified following the release of Episode 11, prompting lead stars IU and Byeon Woo Seok to publicly apologise to fans amid mounting criticism online.

Set in an alternate modern-day Korea functioning as a constitutional monarchy, Perfect Crown follows the story of chaebol heiress Seong Hui Ju, played by IU, and Grand Prince Ian, portrayed by Byeon Woo Seok. While the romantic drama initially attracted attention for its lavish production and star-studded cast, it soon became embroiled in debates over its portrayal of Korean historical identity.