Controversy Surrounds 'Perfect Crown' as MBC Plans Special Marathon Broadcast
Ongoing Buzz Around 'Perfect Crown'
Perfect Crown continues to make headlines even after its conclusion. MBC is set to host a special marathon airing of the K-drama featuring IU and Byeon Woo-Seok, despite facing backlash. The series had impressive ratings during its initial airing, but recent episodes have drawn criticism for alleged inaccuracies regarding historical royal titles, ceremonial chants, and traditional attire. This criticism has escalated online, leading to a National Assembly petition that has gathered over 50,000 signatures, prompting an official review. The main cast has also issued public apologies. Amidst this, MBC's choice to re-broadcast the drama has reignited discussions among viewers.
Details of the 'Perfect Crown' Marathon Event
Perfect Crown Special TV Marathon Event
Perfect Crown is making a comeback on television with a special marathon scheduled for June 3 and 4, even as the controversy surrounding the K-drama intensifies. Reports from various media outlets indicate that MBC Drama Net will air episodes 1 through 6 in one block on June 3, followed by episodes 7 to 12 on June 4, allowing fans to binge-watch the modern romance set in a constitutional monarchy starring IU and Byeon Woo-Seok.
Understanding the 'Perfect Crown' Controversy
About Perfect Crown Controversy
The controversy surrounding Perfect Crown primarily arises from claims of historical inaccuracies and concerns regarding the portrayal of Korean sovereignty in the drama's concluding episodes. A significant portion of the backlash focused on the coronation scene of Grand Prince Ian, where viewers noted the use of a nine-stranded royal crown, which is historically linked to tributary rulers, rather than the 12-stranded imperial crown associated with independent sovereigns. Additionally, the scene faced criticism for featuring officials chanting “Cheonse” (“Long live for 1,000 years”) instead of the more culturally significant “Manse” (“Long live for 10,000 years”). Earlier episodes had already sparked debate for including Chinese-style royal customs and tea ceremonies, leading some viewers to accuse the production of diluting Korean historical identity and cultural practices.
In response to the backlash, the production team of Perfect Crown issued a public apology, acknowledging the controversy and committing to revise certain audio lines, subtitles, and VOD versions before future broadcasts and streaming releases. Lead actors IU and Byeon Woo-Seok also addressed the issue publicly as criticism continued to proliferate online.
Meanwhile, the backlash is escalating, with over 50,000 signatures submitted to South Korea’s National Assembly petition board, demanding the drama's suspension and removal from streaming platforms. While the petition has heightened public scrutiny of the show, legal experts and entertainment insiders suggest it is unlikely to lead to the drama being removed from OTT services.