IU has emotionally responded to growing backlash surrounding her performance in the historical drama "Perfect Crown," breaking down in tears while speaking directly to fans at a special screening event in Seoul.
On May 16, 2026 (KST), the singer and actress celebrated her birthday by renting out CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Seoul to watch the final episode of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama with her fan club, UAENA.nThe event included a screening and a heartfelt post-show talk, where IU openly reflected on the criticism she has received.
According to AllKpop, speaking to the audience, IU said she had been thinking deeply about her responsibilities as both an actress and public figure.
"I should do at least a little better for all of you, and if I disappointed you or showed an inadequate side of myself, that's entirely my fault," she said.
Fans immediately responded with reassurance, shouting that she was being too hard on herself. But IU insisted on taking responsibility, replying, "No, it is true. I will genuinely take responsibility and continue to improve. I want to become someone my fans can be proud of."
Her voice reportedly trembled as she continued, linking her emotions to both the drama's ending and her ongoing music preparations. She added that she plans to work harder and not "waste a single moment," saying she hopes to show a better version of herself in the future.
IU bows deeply and says “It is all my fault” as “Perfect Crown” controversy continues to draw attention#IU #PerfectCrown #ByeonWooSeok #KDramahttps://t.co/FiKUeC5vbN
— KStarTrend.com (@kstartrend) May 17, 2026
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IU Emotionally Responds to Criticism
IU also expressed gratitude to her fans despite the criticism, saying she accepts feedback seriously and wants to grow from it.
"If there are areas where I'm lacking, please continue to tell me, scold me, and push me. I'll listen carefully and work hard to become a better person," she said.
By the end of her speech, IU became visibly emotional, thanking fans for their continued support and apologizing for not meeting expectations. She bowed deeply to the audience after finishing her remarks.
The response comes after "Perfect Crown," which aired from April 10 to May 16, faced ongoing controversy during its run. The drama, starring IU and Byeon Woo Seok, was initially highly anticipated but later drew criticism for acting choices and alleged historical inaccuracies, Koreaboo reported.
Viewers pointed to specific scenes, including coronation dialogue and costume details, which sparked debate over historical portrayal. The production team issued an apology on May 16, acknowledging issues with world-building and promising corrections for future releases.
