IU's 21st Century Royal Fashion Trend

IU and Lee Yeon showcased their "womance" chemistry on the cover of the May issue of fashion magazine 'Cosmopolitan'. The two are working together in the drama '21st Century Lady' as representative Seong Hee-ju (IU) and chief secretary Do Hye-jeong (Lee Yeon), and within just two episodes of its broadcast, the show recorded a 10.1% viewership rating in the Seoul metropolitan area, ranking first in its time slot. In the photoshoot, the two donned pastel-toned light blue outfits in distinct styles, creating a vibe like close friends. IU exuded an active feel with an apron-style dress and boots, while Lee Yeon opted for a Peter Pan collar shirt and denim pants.

In their solo shots, IU expressed Seong Hee-ju's calm yet strong inner self with a burgundy cardigan and sky-blue gloves. Lee Yeon embodied Do Hye-jeong's active and androgynous image with a shirt, knit top, and denim pants. In an interview conducted alongside the photoshoot, IU expressed her affection for Lee Yeon, saying, "​When I spend time with her, I feel like I become more innocent," and Lee Yeon reciprocated, showing their strong bond by saying, "​When Ji-eun sunbae is on set, I feel very supported."

Although IU and Lee Yeon are in a representative and chief secretary relationship in the drama '21st Century Lady', they also confide in each other like friends at times. The two recalled that early in filming, during a scene where they were alone in a car, Lee Yeon initiated conversation to make IU comfortable, and they naturally grew closer. Lee Yeon emphasized that IU "is very supportive" by leading the set well and helping the actors feel comfortable to act.

Beyond their on-screen relationship, the two have become close friends in real life and revealed that they are positively influencing each other. Thanks to IU, Lee Yeon has become close enough to exchange morning greetings, and she said, "When the fuse blows, sunbae catches my soul!" IU mentioned positive changes in her life, saying she "​walks more" thanks to Lee Yeon.

When asked what they would expect if they were to reunite in a different project in the future, IU suggested, "It would be fun to meet as adversaries in the next project," and Lee Yeon expressed anticipation, saying, "​I want to try filming a genre drama with Ji-eun sunbae." More of their photoshoot and interview can be found in the May issue of 'Cosmopolitan' and on its official social media channels.