IU's Divorce Decision: 21st Century's Great Empress?

In the 9th episode of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama 'The Grand Heir of the 21st Century,' Seong Hee-ju (played by IU) informed Prince Ian (played by Byun Woo-seok) of their divorce. The broadcast depicted the two characters facing difficulties as the truth about their contract marriage became known to the world.

Seong Hee-ju and Prince Ian faced a major crisis at the 80th-anniversary ceremony of the Royal Academy when their contract marriage was revealed. Prime Minister Min questioned them about whether they had drafted a prenuptial agreement, and Seong Hee-ju admitted it. Prime Minister Min stated his intention to respond with no comment, but Prince Ian said, "Waiting for things to calm down might backfire," and declared his feelings for Seong Hee-ju were genuine. However, Prime Minister Min put them in an awkward position by mentioning the 'divorce after three years' clause in their contract.

After convening the Royal Clan Association, Grand Dowager Queen Yoon-rang (played by Gong Seung-yeon) summoned Seong Hee-ju and Prince Ian, reprimanding them and warning, "Do you think you can be forgiven for the sin of deceiving the people and disgracing the royal family?" When rumors about Seong Hee-ju began to spread, Prince Ian stepped forward, saying, "I can't wait any longer. I will clarify it myself." However, Prime Minister Min requested Prince Ian's abdication of regency, stating, "Fall alone. I cannot let you and this royal family fall together."

Seong Hee-ju, struggling with her situation, visited Prime Minister Min. As Seong Hee-ju tearfully asked what she should do, Prime Minister Min replied, "Just stay still for now. I won't let you get hurt." Seong Hee-ju then shouted, "Who asked you to protect me!" Prime Minister Min asked, "Weren't you and the Prince a show window couple? Are you not even trying to fool people anymore?" Seong Hee-ju replied, "I don't think so. I like him. Very much," reaffirming her feelings for Prince Ian.

Seong Hee-ju knelt before her father and pleaded for help. When her father asked, "Tell me, is it yourself or Prince Ian that you want to resolve this for?" Seong Hee-ju chose Prince Ian. Afterward, Seong Hee-ju found Prince Ian and informed him of their divorce. At the end of the broadcast, Seong Hee-ju warmly embraced Prince Ian and said goodbye, "Let's get divorced." Prince Ian was visibly bewildered by the sudden announcement of divorce.