Amid the finale of ‘“Perfect Crown,” controversy over historical distortion in the final episodes has intensified. Singer-actor IU also drew attention by becoming emotional in front of fans, seemingly aware of the work’s controversy.

MBC’s Saturday-Sunday drama ‘“Perfect Crown” concluded with its 12th episode (the final episode), which aired on the 16th. According to Nielsen Korea, the 12th episode of ‘“Perfect Crown” recorded a nationwide household viewership rating of 13.8%, the highest in the series. However, the historical distortion controversy that emerged in the latter half of the series heated up drama fans more than the ratings.

The problematic scene was revealed in episode 11 of ‘“Perfect Crown,” where Grand Prince Ian (played by Byeon Woo-seok) wore a ‘Guryumyeonryugwan’ crown during his coronation scene, and attendees shouted ‘Cheonse.’ Although ‘“Perfect Crown” is set in a fictional constitutional monarchy, the depiction differed from historical accuracy where an emperor of an independent nation would wear a ‘Sib-iyeonryugwan’ crown and use ‘Manse,’ sparking controversy over historical distortion.

The characters’ Chinese-style tea ceremony scene also drew criticism. In a scene where Seong Hui-ju (played by IU) and Queen Dowager Yoon I-rang (played by Gong Seung-yeon) drank tea together, the method of placing a water receiver, pouring tea into the teapot, and then into the cup was identified as a ‘Chinese-style tea ceremony.’ This led to backlash, especially amid public resentment over China’s historical distortion project, the Northeast Project, with critics arguing that the Korean drama provided unnecessary ammunition.

Amid this, IU held a special screening of the final episode of ‘“Perfect Crown” with fans at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the day of the drama’s finale to celebrate her birthday. After the screening, as she greeted fans, IU became tearful.

At the time, IU began, “I think it’s because I’ve been preparing for an album and the drama is nearing its end, but lately I’ve been thinking, ‘I need to do better. I need to take more responsibility and do better.’” She continued, “I feel like I should do better for you, even just a little. If I disappoint you or show inadequacy, it’s truly my fault.”

She emphasized, “I will take responsibility and do my best. I need to become someone my Yunaena (fan club name) can be proud of. Lately, I’ve had a lot on my mind. If only I had done better, things would have been different. As someone who receives your love, I will do better. I won’t waste a single moment and will live well to become an IU who shows better results with more responsibility.”

IU also stressed, “I’m grateful that you love and support me despite my many shortcomings. I believe every word you say has reason and is something I must accept. If there are areas where I fall short, please point them out, scold me, and push me. I will listen and strive to become a better person.”

Finally, she said, “I’m late in saying this, but I love you. I’m sorry that I keep showing inadequacies despite wanting to present a better self. Thank you for giving me opportunities and your affection. Regardless, I will strive harder and do better,” and her eyes reddened.

Criticism over historical distortion surrounding the finale of ‘“Perfect Crown” remains intense. IU, the lead actor of the drama, indirectly referenced the controversy at an event held on the finale day. Earlier, the production team also apologized through the official website, announcing plans to edit and revise the controversial scenes. IU’s apology in front of fans first drew attention.

As of the afternoon of the 17th, however, the historical distortion scenes in ‘“Perfect Crown” have only been edited in MBC’s rebroadcasts, with the ‘Cheonse’ sound removed. The scenes still appear on OTT platforms. Regarding this, MBC and Disney+ have not issued separate official statements.