The makers of a hit South Korean drama have apologised after a coronation scene sparked backlash for allegedly distorting history and reproducing symbols associated with the country’s past subordination by imperial China.
Perfect Crown, a 12-part palace romance starring K-pop star IU and Byeon Woo Seok, has been one of this year’s biggest Korean television successes. Set in an alternate version of present-day Korea where the monarchy still exists, the series follows the relationship between a wealthy heiress played by IU and a prince, played by Byeon, trapped within royal expectations.
