[Photo&] IU and Byeon Woo-seok’s “The Noble Lady of the 21st Century” Foreshadows a Second “Princess Hours” Syndrome, “At the Production Press Conference”

The Prologue of Royal Romance, Foreshadowing a Second “Princess Hours” Syndrome

Actors 'IU' and 'Byeon Woo-seok' have teamed up for MBC’s new Friday-Saturday drama 'The Noble Lady of the 21st Century'. Set in a bold world where the country runs on 'a constitutional monarchy', it tells the story of a fated romance between a chaebol heiress determined to rise in society and a royal second son with no real power. At the 'production press conference' held on the 6th at Chosun Palace Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, the two lead actors, along with Director Park Jun-hwa, No Sang-hyun, and Gong Seung-yeon, were there, showcasing their strong confidence in the work. All eyes are on the new syndrome expected to sweep through living rooms.

Bold Ambitions to Become No. 1 in the Industry, Lee Ji-eun as Seong Hee-ju

In the drama, 'IU' takes on the role of Seong Hee-ju, a commoner who makes a high-stakes move through a contract marriage to break past the limits of her status, delivering a standout performance. She said, “I’ve never been the kind of person who missed a No. 1 spot in the industry,” adding, “Even in this work, I’ll make it No. 1 in the industry.” Her decision to get hooked instantly on the script’s three-dimensional characters and its comedic turns is expected—once again—to prove the public’s trust.

The Royal Second Son, Lee An-gun, Sets Out to Cement the Leading Trend

'Byeon Woo-seok', who rose to global stardom through tvN 'Lovely Runner', transforms perfectly into the royal second son, Lee An-gun. After the mega-hit of his previous project, as he steps into his next, he said, “Even under the weight of great responsibility, I did my best,” previewing an acting range that keeps expanding. Since 'IU' and he reunited for the first time in 10 years—following the 2016 SBS Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo—he said, “The chemistry was perfect, to the point where the 10-year gap felt meaningless,” highlighting an unbreakable partnership.

Aiming Directly at the Global Market via Disney+

The ripple effect of 'The Noble Lady of the 21st Century' extends beyond Korea and toward the global market. About the chance to meet viewers around the world through Disney+, actors No Sang-hyun and Gong Seung-yeon said, “This is an excellent opportunity to share Korea’s unique traditional beauty and modern sophistication at the same time,” expressing full confidence. Worldwide media attention is focused on the arrival of a well-made romance historical drama that will elevate the status of K-content to the next level.

The Delicate Direction of Master Director Park Jun-hwa, a Surefire Guarantee for a Hit

Director Park Jun-hwa, who was at the helm, praised it by saying, “A perfect synergy was created thanks to the overwhelming visuals of the two lead actors and their solid acting skills.” As much care went into recreating the glory of the drama Princess Hours, which swept Korea in 2006, the production announced the arrival of a premium drama where a meticulous script and dazzling mise-en-scène come together.