Petition to remove MBC’s 'Perfect Crown' surpasses 60 percent amid historical distortion controversy

24 May 2026, 08:21 by Demian09 · allkpop

A petition calling for the removal of the MBC drama 'Perfect Crown' has surpassed a 60 percent approval rate, as controversy continues to grow over alleged historical distortion and cultural misrepresentation.

As of 5 p.m. on May 24 (KST), the petition titled 'Request to suspend broadcast and remove content across media platforms due to historical distortion and alleged Dongbei-style historical revisionism' posted on the National Assembly public petition board on May 22 had exceeded the 60 percent support threshold, with the number of signatures surpassing 30,000.

The petitioner argues that 'Perfect Crown,' while set in a fictional version of Korea, makes frequent use of Chinese style costumes, etiquette, and language elements. According to the petition, these portrayals amount to historical distortion and cultural appropriation. It calls for an immediate suspension of the drama’s broadcast along with the complete removal of all related content from VOD and OTT platforms.

The petition also cites Article 5 of the Broadcasting Act, stating that broadcasting content should strengthen national identity and foster healthy public sentiment. It urges authorities to introduce stricter regulations, including the exclusion of production companies from government funding and limitations on broadcasting licenses in cases where cultural or national identity is allegedly undermined under the guise of fiction.

The controversy intensified after Episode 11 of MBC’s 'Perfect Crown,' aired on May 15, featured a coronation scene in which Prince Ian, played by 'Perfect Crown' and portrayed by Byeon Woo Seok, wears a ceremonial crown associated with tributary states. In the same episode, characters are seen performing ritual chants that some viewers claimed resemble elements of traditional Chinese imperial court culture, sparking accusations that the drama could be linked to narratives associated with China’s “Dongbei Project.”

Following public backlash, the production team issued an official apology and revised the episode for rebroadcast and streaming platforms by muting certain audio and removing subtitles from the disputed scenes. The director and writer also issued public apologies through interviews and official statements, while lead actors including IU expressed regret over the controversy. The broadcasting company Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) also confirmed that parts of the episode have been edited or removed.

Despite these measures, public debate continues. Critics argue that post production edits are not enough and continue to demand full removal of the series. Others believe that the calls for cancellation are excessive and that the overall artistic value and intent of the drama should be considered.

The petition will remain open for signatures until June 21. If it reaches 50,000 approvals within 30 days, it will be formally referred to a relevant standing committee of the National Assembly for review.

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