Ending of the K-Drama Perfect Crown Sparks Controversy, Director Admits Mistake Over Royal Symbolism

Perfect Crown (Doc.ist)

SecondUpdate.com - The Korean drama Perfect Crown is currently under public scrutiny in South Korea after episode 11 drew criticism from netizens.

As the series approaches its finale, the drama starring IU and Byeon Woo Seok has been accused of presenting elements that allegedly distort history.

The controversy began with the coronation scene of the character Yi An, played by Byeon Woo Seok. During the ceremony, the term “cheonse” was heard being used in the royal ritual.

The use of the term immediately sparked criticism because it was considered inconsistent with the symbolism of Korean royal sovereignty.

Among Korean viewers, “cheonse,” which means “one thousand years,” is associated with kingdoms that were under the rule of another nation, particularly Chinese dynasties in the past.

Meanwhile, independent kingdoms traditionally used the term “manse,” meaning “ten thousand years.”

Not only the dialogue, but Yi An’s coronation costume also became a point of controversy. Some viewers argued that the crown worn by the character resembled the regalia of a subordinate kingdom under a Chinese dynasty rather than that of an independent kingdom.

The crown used in the drama was identified as a guryumyeonryugwan, while independent kingdoms during the Joseon era typically used a shipimyeonryugwan. This small detail quickly sparked widespread debate across South Korean social media.

The controversy led the drama’s two main stars, IU and Byeon Woo Seok, to issue public apologies. Now, the drama’s director, Park Joon Hwa, has also addressed the growing backlash.

According to Park Joon Hwa, the world depicted in Perfect Crown was intentionally created as a fictional kingdom inspired by the Joseon era.

He explained that the production team imagined an alternative version of Korea that never experienced tragic periods such as Japanese colonization or the Korean War.

He added that the concept was designed to portray a more peaceful and idealized version of Korea within the framework of a historical fantasy drama.

Nevertheless, Park Joon Hwa admitted that there were shortcomings in how the royal symbols were portrayed in the series. He acknowledged that the production team should have exercised greater consideration before airing the controversial scene.

The director also emphasized that the controversy was never intentional. According to him, the issue arose from the fantasy-based approach used in building the world of Perfect Crown.

Despite facing intense criticism, Perfect Crown has managed to maintain its popularity through the final episodes.

The drama continues to receive positive responses from many viewers thanks to the strong chemistry between the cast members and its emotionally engaging storyline.