Singer and actress IU (Lee Ji-eun) and rising star Byeon Woo-seok have been confirmed as leads for MBC’s upcoming romantic drama '21st Century Grand Prince's Wife ('21세기 대군 부인', working title)'. Announced on December 2 by Kakao Entertainment, this drama unfolds in a fictional, modern-day South Korea where a constitutional monarchy exists.
Co-produced by MBC and Kakao Entertainment, the drama tells the love story of Seong Hee-joo, the daughter of the nation’s most powerful conglomerate, and Grand Prince Lee An, a royal who cannot claim anything as his own due to his station. The project originated from a 2022 MBC drama script contest, where it received a prestigious award, and it is set to air in late 2025.
IU will play Seong Hee-joo, a woman blessed with beauty, intelligence, and an intense competitive streak. Despite her privileges as the second daughter of a Korean 'chaebol(재벌)' family, her commoner status becomes a significant obstacle in her life, leading her to a fateful encounter with the Grand Prince. Known for her exceptional acting in 'My Mister('나의 아저씨'), 'Hotel Del Luna'('호텔 델루나'), and 'Broker'('브로커'), IU’s portrayal of Hee-joo is anticipated to showcase yet another layer of her depth and versatility as an actress.
Byeon Woo-seok will play Grand Prince Lee An, the second son of the king. Bound by the limitations of his royal status, Lee An has lived his life in the shadows, hiding his true self. However, his meeting with Seong Hee-joo sparks a transformative journey. After captivating global audiences with his role in 'Lovely Runner'('선재 업고 튀어'), Byeon Woo-seok’s performance as a modern royal figure is expected to bring a fresh allure to the screen.
The unique setting of a contemporary constitutional monarchy, combined with the chemistry of two beloved actors, has fans buzzing with excitement. Online communities have exploded with reactions like, “I can’t believe this is real,” “The plot alone is exciting, but IU and Byeon Woo-seok together? Incredible,” and “A modern monarchy drama with this cast? Count me in!”
IU, who last appeared in the smash-hit 'Hotel Del Luna' ('호텔 델루나'), delivered one of the highest-rated finales for a tvN drama, achieving a remarkable 12% viewership. Byeon Woo-seok, on the other hand, shot to stardom with 'Lovely Runner'('선재 업고 튀어') , a time-travel romance that became a viral sensation on social media, cementing his status as a global star.
With its high-profile cast, intriguing premise, and the creative collaboration of MBC and Kakao Entertainment, '21st Century Grand Prince's Wife ('21세기 대군 부인', working title)' is shaping up to be one of 2024’s most anticipated dramas. Fans worldwide are already counting down the days.