Byun Woo-seok Apologizes for Historical Distortion Controversy in '21st Century Great Lady'

Actor Byun Woo-seok has once again apologized regarding the historical distortion controversy surrounding his recently concluded drama, '21st Century Great Lady.'

On the morning of May 19, a production presentation for the new Netflix variety show 'Yoo Jae-suk Camp' was held at the Grand Ballroom on the LL floor of the JW Marriott Dongdaemun in Seoul. Attendees included PDs Jung Hyo-min, Lee So-min, and Hwang Yoon-seo, along with broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk, actors Lee Kwang-soo, Byun Woo-seok, and Ji Ye-eun.

During the event, Byun addressed the controversy over historical inaccuracies in '21st Century Great Lady.'

He stated, "I believe that the best version of myself is to do my best in every moment. Therefore, I put my utmost effort into filming 'Yoo Jae-suk Camp,' and I hope viewers will appreciate that effort in the show alone."

He continued, "Regarding the issue (of historical distortion), I want to sincerely apologize for that."

Meanwhile, the final episode of '21st Century Great Lady,' which aired on May 16, depicted the coronation ceremony of the character Ian Daegun, played by Byun Woo-seok. This scene sparked controversy due to the use of the term 'Cheonse,' associated with vassal states, and the appearance of a crown representing a vassal instead of the emperor's ten-leaf crown, leading to accusations of historical distortion and the Northeast Project controversy.

On May 18, Byun Woo-seok took to social media to express, "During the filming and acting process, I lacked consideration for the historical context and meaning embedded in the work and how it might be perceived by viewers. I sincerely apologize for that."

'Yoo Jae-suk Camp' is a variety show where Yoo Jae-suk, along with Lee Kwang-soo, Byun Woo-seok, and Ji Ye-eun, engages with viewers in a 'variety training camp.' The show is set to premiere on May 26.