Director Park Joon-hwa Blames Himself for Historical Inaccuracies

Park Joon-hwa, the director of MBC's drama 'A Royal Secret Affair at Joseon Dynasty', apologized for the historical distortion controversy, blaming his own ignorance. He stated that while he intended to provide healing to viewers through the drama, he instead created an uncomfortable situation, and apologized on behalf of the production team. He also expressed his apologies to the actors who worked hard alongside him, becoming emotional and shedding tears.

'A Royal Secret Affair at Joseon Dynasty' is a drama set in a constitutional monarchy in 21st-century South Korea, depicting the romance between Seong Hee-ju (played by IU), a chaebol heiress with everything but of commoner status, and Ian (played by Byun Woo-seok), the king's son who can possess nothing. Although it concluded with a highest viewership rating of 13.8%, from its early broadcast, it faced controversies regarding its world-building and the actors' performances, and in its later half, it was embroiled in a historical distortion controversy.

Regarding the constitutional monarchy setting, Director Park explained, "It started from the premise, based on the writer's affection for Joseon, of what the present would be like if it had continued without any painful history." He revealed the production intent, stating, "I wanted to convey the message that ordinary daily life is the most precious, regardless of social status or greed, through romance."

However, concerning historical accuracy, he expressed deep regret, saying, "I considered the issues of historical accuracy and received consultations, but because the drama's setting of a constitutional monarchy and the existence of a royal family is inherently fictional and fantastical, I carelessly thought it was different from reality, which seems to be the reason I fell into this pit." Specifically, issues arose from shouting 'Cheonse' instead of 'Manse' during the coronation scene, wearing a crown signifying a feudal lord rather than an emperor, and the use of Chinese-style tea ceremonies.

Director Park reflected, "I wish I had moved beyond the desire to replicate the Joseon Dynasty's coronation ceremony and instead shown our country's independent spirit," and repeatedly apologized, stating, "As the director, I was too ignorant about these aspects." He also conveyed his apologies to the actors, adding, "The actors worked so hard and put in their best efforts, and it broke my heart to see them hurt and apologizing alongside me because of my immaturity in portraying historical matters."