South Korean singer-actress IU and have been trending for a while – for good and some rather controversial reasons. Now, a viral online post has claimed that IU earned an enormous amount per episode for starring in the series, making her one of the highest-paid actors in the Korean entertainment industry. The fee revelation comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the drama’s depiction of Korea in a fictional constitutional monarchy setting. IU and co-star Byeon Woo-Seok recently apologised to viewers after erupted over certain historical and cultural portrayals in the series. So, why is IU’s fees such a big matter of discussion? Read on to find out.
IU’s huge fees for Perfect Crown REVEALED
According to a viral post circulating online, as reported by Koreaboo, IU allegedly received around 500 million KRW, approximately 336,000 USD, per episode for her role in Perfect Crown. Since the drama consists of 12 episodes, the actress is said to have earned a staggering 6 billion KRW, which converts to nearly 4.03 million USD in total. For context, it amounts to Rs 38,84,00,300 in INR, a fees bigger than most film actors and actresses in the country, let alone TV or web series!
The reported amount has sparked massive discussions online, with many fans and netizens reacting to the enormous paycheck. If the reports are accurate, IU would become one of the highest-paid Korean actors currently working in the entertainment industry. Her last K-Drama, When Life Gives You Tangerines, was a global hit too, which may have led to her hefty salary.
IU in Perfect Crown
In Perfect Crown, IU portrays Seong Hui-Ju, a wealthy chaebol heiress living in an alternate version of modern-day Korea where the country functions as a constitutional monarchy. Despite her immense wealth and influence, her character remains a commoner by status. The drama follows her complicated relationship and eventual marriage with Grand Prince Ian, played by Byeon Woo-Seok. Ian is portrayed as the king’s son who possesses royal status but struggles with emotional loneliness and lack of power within the palace. The fantasy romance drama initially attracted strong attention for its unique premise, lavish visuals and star-studded cast. However, the series soon found itself at the centre of a major controversy after Episode 11 aired on May 15.
IU apologises for Perfect Crown controversy
The backlash surrounding Perfect Crown became huge after viewers accused the drama of portraying Korea as a subordinate state to China during a royal coronation sequence. Critics pointed to the use of the term ‘Cheonse,’ associated with vassal states, instead of ‘Manse,’ which symbolises an independent nation. Viewers also criticised the costume design used during the coronation ceremony. Grand Prince Ian was shown wearing a ‘guryumyeonryugwan’, a crown associated with Chinese subjects, instead of the ‘shipimyeonryugwan’ traditionally linked to rulers of independent nations.
IU, Byeon Woo-Seok in Perfect Crown
As criticism grew online, the production team released an official apology on May 16, stating that they took concerns regarding the undermining of Korea’s sovereignty very seriously. Days later, IU personally addressed the controversy through a sincere message posted on Instagram. The actress admitted she had carefully read viewers’ concerns and acknowledged her own shortcomings in the matter. “As a lead actor of the drama, I feel I failed to show a responsible attitude and ended up causing great disappointment, and I am deeply sorry,” IU wrote.
The actress also admitted that she should have examined the script more carefully and studied the historical references in greater detail before filming. She confessed she felt ashamed for not recognising the issues earlier and apologised unconditionally.