Controversy Surrounds 'Perfect Crown' as Petition for Cancellation Gains Momentum

The historical fantasy series 'Perfect Crown' has sparked significant controversy, leading to a national petition for its cancellation. Despite apologies from the cast and production team, public outrage continues to grow, with thousands signing the petition in just days. The drama has been criticized for alleged cultural inaccuracies and historical distortions, particularly regarding its portrayal of Korean traditions. As the petition gains momentum, the fate of 'Perfect Crown' may soon be decided by the National Assembly, raising questions about cultural representation in media.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2026, 18:50 IST

Ongoing Controversies of 'Perfect Crown'

The historical fantasy series Perfect Crown has concluded, yet the controversies linked to it persist. Despite apologies from the cast and production team, the show faces potential removal. A national petition advocating for its cancellation has gained significant traction online, amassing thousands of signatures in just a few days. The series, featuring IU and Byeon Woo-Seok, has been criticized for alleged historical and cultural inaccuracies. Although the production team has issued apologies, edited contentious scenes, and promised to make corrections, public discontent remains high, and discussions about the show continue in South Korea.

Petition for Cancellation of 'Perfect Crown'

Reports indicate that a petition demanding the cancellation of Perfect Crown was submitted to the National Assembly’s public petition board on May 22. The petition's creator contended that while the drama is set in a fictionalized Korea, it incorporates several elements reminiscent of Chinese culture, which viewers found objectionable. The main issues raised pertain to the clothing, ceremonial practices, and terminology depicted in the series, which critics argue misrepresent Korean history and identity.

The petitioner also expressed concerns that the show could inadvertently support narratives related to China’s contentious Northeast Project, which has historically caused disputes over cultural heritage and historical interpretation between the two nations. Despite multiple apologies from the creators, the backlash continues to escalate online. As of May 23, the petition had garnered nearly 15,000 signatures. Under South Korean parliamentary regulations, the issue could be officially reviewed if the petition surpasses 50,000 signatures within a month.

Details of the 'Perfect Crown' Controversy

The controversy intensified following the airing of Episode 11, which featured scenes of Grand Prince Ian, portrayed by Byeon Woo-Seok, during a coronation ceremony. Critics noted that the characters in the scene chanted 'Cheon-se' instead of 'Man-se.' Viewers pointed out that 'Cheon-se' was historically linked to vassal states, while 'Man-se' represented sovereignty and independence in Korean history.

Another significant criticism focused on the king’s ceremonial crown depicted in the scene. Viewers argued that the nine-sectioned crown shown in the drama resembled attire historically associated with Chinese subjects, while independent Korean emperors typically wore twelve-sectioned crowns. In response to the backlash, the production team released an official statement apologizing to viewers. They acknowledged the concerns regarding historical accuracy and world-building, promising immediate corrective measures. They also announced that the contentious scenes would be revised for future broadcasts, VOD releases, and OTT streaming versions. Director Park Jun-hwa, writer Yoo Ji-won, and lead actors IU and Byeon Woo-Seok publicly apologized for the issue. Both IU and Byeon Woo-Seok reportedly penned handwritten letters expressing their regret and recognizing the seriousness of the audience's concerns, with IU visibly emotional during her apology.

However, the apologies and edits have not quelled public outrage. With the petition numbers continuing to rise swiftly, reaching the 50,000 mark may not take long. The fate of Perfect Crown will ultimately be determined by the National Assembly.