Episode 10 of Perfect Crown has completely shifted the public conversation surrounding the drama after a viral kiss scene between IU and Byeon Woo Seok exploded across social media and online communities.

The series had recently faced several weeks of criticism. Viewers debated everything from the chemistry and acting performances of the two leads to controversies surrounding the drama’s portrayal of history and royal themes. While ratings and online engagement remained strong, discussions around the show had become increasingly divided.

However, episode 10 appears to have changed the atmosphere almost overnight.

The newest episode featured an emotional confession scene that quickly escalated into an unexpectedly intense romantic moment between the two main characters. Following IU’s confession, the pair shared a passionate kiss sequence that immediately went viral among K-drama fans online.

Clips and screenshots from the scene spread rapidly across platforms including X, TikTok, Instagram, and Korean forums, with many viewers saying they were completely caught off guard by the chemistry and physical intensity of the moment.

THE WAY THEY SMILED IN BETWEEN THEIR KISSES IM LOSING MY MIND BYEEE#PerfectCrown #PerfectCrownEp10 pic.twitter.com/gCYJzYm0g5

— ᵕ̈ (@wooseokfiles) May 9, 2026

Fans especially focused on small details throughout the sequence, including Byeon Woo Seok’s hand placement around IU’s waist, the lingering eye contact between kisses, the soft smiles exchanged during the scene, and even subtle wardrobe details that added to the realism of the moment. Many viewers described the scene as one of the most memorable romance moments currently airing in K-drama.

The online reaction became even bigger after IU posted a selfie following filming that appeared to show her lips slightly swollen, leading fans to jokingly connect it back to the now-viral kissing scene. The photo quickly fueled even more discussion and memes online, pushing the drama back into trending topics.

For many viewers, the scene marked a major turning point for the series. Even people who had not been actively watching the drama reportedly became curious after seeing the overwhelming online reactions.

The sudden shift in public opinion has been notable because just days earlier much of the discussion surrounding Perfect Crown centered on criticism. Now, conversation online has largely moved toward praise for the chemistry between the leads and excitement over the romance storyline.

Whether the earlier backlash was justified or not, episode 10 has undeniably reignited interest in the series. With only a few episodes remaining, many viewers are now closely watching to see whether the drama can maintain this momentum and fully capitalize on the renewed buzz created by IU and Byeon Woo Seok’s viral scene.