Byeon Woo Seok gives second apology over 'Perfect Crown' controversy

19 May 2026, 22:07 by K-Soul · allkpop

Byeon Woo Seok once again apologized in relation to the controversy surrounding 'Perfect Crown.'

On May 19, Byeon Woo Seok attended the press conference for the upcoming 'Jae Seok’s B&B Rules!' at JW Marriott Dongdaemun in Seoul, where he stated, “I’m sorry about the recent issue.”

The actor was referring to the historical distortion controversy involving the MBC drama 'Perfect Crown.' This marks his second public statement following his previously released apology letter.

He also asked for warm support for 'Jae Seok’s B&B Rules!' saying, “I always try to do my best in every moment. I also gave my all for 'Jae Seok’s B&B Rules!' I hope viewers will look upon it kindly.”

'Perfect Crown' is set in a 21st-century constitutional monarchy version of South Korea. The drama follows the romance between characters played by Byeon Woo Seok and IU as they overcome differences in social status to complete their love story.

The controversy centered on the drama’s portrayal of the Joseon Dynasty. Elements such as Grand Prince Ian’s “beaded crown” and officials shouting “Cheonse” led some viewers to believe the series depicted Korea as a tributary state of China.

Concerns quickly spread online and among civic groups. On May 17, cyber diplomacy organization VANK reportedly sent a letter to Disney+ requesting revisions to the drama’s audio and subtitles.

Korean history instructor Choi Tae Sung also criticized the production, saying, “They spend hundreds of millions of KRW on actors’ appearance fees, yet try to cut corners on historical research costs worth only a few hundred thousand KRW. I hope they respect the field of history.”

As the controversy continued, both the production team and cast members issued formal apologies. The production team stated, “We sincerely apologize for causing concern regarding the fictional world-building and historical accuracy issues.”

Byeon Woo Seok and IU also apologized, saying, “We lacked sufficient consideration about the historical context and meaning contained in the project and how viewers might perceive it.”

Meanwhile,'Jae Seok’s B&B Rules!' is a guesthouse-style variety show featuring Yoo Jae Suk as the camp host, while Byeon Woo Seok, Lee Kwang Soo, and Ji Ye Eun appear as staff members interacting with guests. The show premieres on May 26.

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