‘Perfect Crown’ director tearfully apologizes over historical controversy

19 May 2026, 05:56 by Minsoo-Kim · allkpop

Park Joon Hwa became emotional while addressing controversy surrounding the drama 'Perfect Crown'.

During an interview held in Seoul on May 19 KST, the director appeared before reporters with a somber expression and apologized for the backlash surrounding the series.

Park stated, “I hoped the drama would remain as a healing and joyful memory for viewers, but instead we created a situation that caused discomfort. There is no excuse,” adding, “As the representative of the production team, I believe I bear the greatest responsibility. I sincerely apologize to viewers.”

The drama, set in a fictional constitutional monarchy version of South Korea, faced criticism for scenes depicting royal symbols and terminology that some viewers interpreted as historically inaccurate or diminishing Korea’s sovereign identity.

While explaining and apologizing for the controversial scenes, Park became tearful as he recalled reactions from viewers.

He shared that he once saw a video online of an elderly viewer watching a ballroom dance scene between characters Sung Hee Joo and Grand Prince Ian, portrayed by IU and Byeon Woo Seok.

Park explained that he had worried viewers might find the formal dance sequence awkward because such scenes are uncommon in Korean dramas, but the elderly viewer responded warmly, saying the drama was “so fun” while watching alongside his son.

The director said the moment deeply moved him, adding that he felt even more sorry toward viewers who simply wanted comfort and healing from the series.

'Perfect Crown' concluded with its 12th episode on May 16 and achieved a personal best nationwide rating of 13.8 percent, according to Nielsen Korea. However, the series continued to face criticism over alleged historical inaccuracies involving royal customs, social hierarchy, and political settings, with some viewers even calling for the drama’s cancellation.

When asked about the production’s future direction following the controversy, Park replied, “It is not something I can decide on my own. I understand discussions are ongoing internally among everyone involved,” before once again bowing his head in apology.

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