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South Korean singer-actress IU has apologized following controversies surrounding the finale of the MBC drama Perfect Crown, which drew backlash over alleged historical inaccuracies and criticism of the show's world-building.

On May 16, the same day the series aired its final episode, a group viewing event for the drama was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. IU, who portrayed female lead Seong Hui-ju, attended the event with fans on her birthday and personally apologized to fans at the event.

As reported by Allkpop, IU shared her thoughts on wrapping up the drama after the screening. She said, “There will be more days for us to meet this year. I hope I can see everyone who came today again on another good day. I think it's because I'm currently preparing an album and my drama is nearing its end, but lately I've been thinking even more that I need to do better and carry myself with greater responsibility.”

She added, “I should do at least a little better for all of you, and if I disappointed you or showed an inadequate side of myself, that's entirely my fault.”

Although fans comforted her by saying “That's not true!” IU answered, “No, it is true. I will genuinely take responsibility and continue to improve. I want to become someone my fans can be proud of.”

IU also addressed the ongoing controversy through a lengthy statement on Instagram.

“Over the past few days, I carefully read each and every message left by many viewers,” IU wrote. “As the lead actress of this project, I feel I failed to show the sense of responsibility expected of me and caused great disappointment. I am deeply sorry.”

The drama had already faced criticism since its early episodes over the lead actors' performances and the show's fictional world-building. However, controversy intensified ahead of the finale after viewers pointed out alleged distortions in the coronation scene.

Among the issues raised was the use of the chant “Cheonse” traditionally associated with vassal states, instead of “Manse,” which is reserved for sovereign monarchs. Viewers also criticized the king's use of a nine-flap crown, considered a rank lower than the twelve-flap crown historically worn by emperors. Another scene involving tea ceremony etiquette was likewise accused of reflecting Chinese customs rather than Korean royal traditions.

Addressing the criticism, IU admitted through her post that she should have approached the role more carefully.

“I sincerely reflect on and apologize, without excuse, for taking part in the drama without thinking more deeply about the various historical inaccuracies that viewers pointed out,” she wrote.

“Since this was a project that sought to portray imagination rooted in our unique history and the traditional beauty of South Korea, I should have approached the script more carefully and studied more thoroughly as an actress.”

Following the backlash, the Perfect Crown production team also released an apology through the drama's official website shortly after the finale aired.

“We sincerely apologize for causing concern over the drama's world-building and historical inaccuracies,” the statement read.

The team specifically acknowledged criticism surrounding the coronation scene, saying they “take seriously viewers' criticism” regarding the use of the nine-flap crown and the chant “Cheonse,” which some viewers said undermined Korea's sovereign status.

According to the production team, the issue stemmed from insufficient historical review during the creative process.

“As a romance and historical drama blending fiction with real historical contexts, we should have approached world-building with greater caution and scrutiny, but our efforts were insufficient,” they said.

The team also pledged to revise the controversial scenes in future broadcasts and streaming releases.

“We humbly accept your criticism. We will promptly revise the audio and subtitles for the relevant scenes in reruns, VOD, and OTT services,” the statement added.

IU ended her message by thanking viewers who continued watching the series and sharing their thoughts.

“I will always remember the valuable criticism and opinions you have given me, and I will strive to approach future projects with greater care and diligence,” she said.

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