IU's 'Apple' Ending Controversy: 'Grand Prince' Finale Drama

MBC's Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Princess' concluded with a happy ending, recording its highest viewership rating of 13.8%. The drama depicted Seong Hui-ju (IU) and Lee Wan (Byeon Woo-seok) abolishing the monarchy and starting their newlywed life as an ordinary couple.

However, on the 16th, the day the drama ended, lead actress IU shed tears and apologized at a group viewing event with fans. IU said, "I've been thinking a lot lately. It would have been fine if I had done better," adding, "As someone who receives your love, I will take on more responsibility and not waste a single hour to show you a better side." She continued, "Everything you say has a reason, and I must accept it. If there are areas where I am lacking, please scold and push me harder. I will become a better person," bowing 90 degrees.

IU's apology is interpreted as being mindful of the various controversies surrounding '21st Century Grand Princess'. '21st Century Grand Princess' was a hit from its first broadcast, recording a viewership rating of 7.8%, but faced criticism regarding the lead actors' acting skills, as well as issues with the world-building and historical accuracy.

In particular, criticism over historical inaccuracies was fierce. Scenes such as courtiers shouting 'Cheonse' (a phrase used for feudal lords) instead of 'Manse' (used for kings) during Prince Ian's (Byeon Woo-seok) coronation, the king wearing a lower-grade crown, and the adoption of Chinese tea ceremony methods escalated into controversy over historical distortion and Northeast Project allegations.

In response, the production team posted an apology on their official website and stated that they would revise the audio and subtitles for those parts in future reruns, VOD, and OTT services. However, the controversy continues, with the cyber diplomatic mission VANK launching a campaign to correct errors against Disney Plus.