Actor Byeon Woo Seok Releases Handwritten Apology Amid “Perfect Crown” Dispute
Byeon Woo Seok is facing backlash over a historical error in MBC’s K-Drama Perfect Crown.
The controversy began with Episode 11, which aired on May 15. The scene showed Grand Prince Ian (played by Byeon Woo Seok) ascending the throne.
Court officials chanted “cheonse” instead of “manse.” Fans pointed out that “manse” is used to celebrate an independent nation, while “cheonse” is linked to a lower-ranking vassal state. This sparked criticism for distorting history.
As the situation heated up, Byeon Woo Seok posted a handwritten apology on Instagram on May 18, 2026 (KST).
He said he was worried his words might cause more harm but wanted to address the discomfort caused by the show.
“Over the weekend, I worried and was concerned that my words might cause further harm. With a heavy heart, I am writing to those who felt discomfort and concern because of the show.”
— Byeon Woo Seok
He admitted he didn’t think enough about the historical meaning or how viewers would react.
“During the process of filming and acting in the show, I lacked sufficient consideration of the historical context and meaning contained in the work, as well as how it could be received by viewers. Through viewers’ comments, I was able to reflect on myself and feel remorse. As an actor, I was once again deeply reminded that I need to take a more responsible approach not only to acting, but also to carefully considering the message and context of a project.”
Byeon Woo Seok promised to take a more careful and thoughtful approach to his future work.
“I sincerely apologize. I would like to once again thank everyone who has loved ‘Perfect Crown’ and Grand Prince Ian and offered advice. Moving forward, I will become an actor who approaches projects with a more careful and thoughtful attitude. I am sorry.”
Perfect Crown takes place in a modern South Korea with a constitutional monarchy, but this mistake about royal chants caused fans to call out the show for historical distortion.
Read more about co-star IU’s reaction to the ongoing backlash here.