A scandal involving IU and Byeon Woo-seok is set to shake South Korea.
The highly anticipated MBC drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' is set to premiere on the 10th, and it has released a highlight video showcasing the tumultuous journey of a contract marriage between Seong Hee-joo (played by IU) and Grand Prince Lee An (played by Byeon Woo-seok).
The video reveals the journey of Seong Hee-joo, a wealthy heiress with everything but noble status, and Grand Prince Lee An, a royal second son with nothing but his title, as they embark on a contract marriage. Seong Hee-joo, often the subject of gossip due to her commoner status, devises a bold plan to marry into royalty to escape her social constraints.
Grand Prince Lee An, meanwhile, is under pressure from Queen Dowager Yoon Yi-rang (played by Gong Seung-yeon) to marry, amidst suspicions that he might be eyeing the young king's throne. Seong Hee-joo requests an audience with him and boldly proposes marriage, seeking to elevate her status.
However, their marriage faces opposition due to Seong Hee-joo's commoner status and Lee An's position within the royal family. Even their close friend, Prime Minister Min Jeong-woo (played by Noh Sang-hyun), along with Queen Dowager Yoon Yi-rang, royal relatives, and the public, show disapproval, predicting a challenging path to marriage.
As societal opposition and royal protocols tighten around them, threats targeting Seong Hee-joo add to the tension. Despite this, Seong Hee-joo remains undeterred, enjoying daring escapades with Lee An, who in turn naturally treats her like a lover, displaying unwavering affection.
Notably, Seong Hee-joo's encouragement, "Don't waver, don't retreat, and don't yield," and Lee An's words, "It's for you," reflect their genuine care for each other. Their steadfast romance, standing strong against societal opposition and strict rules, is highly anticipated.
The highlight video of '21st Century Grand Duchess' teases the fantastic chemistry between Seong Hee-joo and Lee An as they aim to break through the barriers in front of them through a contract marriage. Although it begins as a contract, their story promises to evolve into love and trust, overcoming all opposition.
Set in a 21st-century constitutional monarchy in South Korea, '21st Century Grand Duchess' tells the story of a wealthy heiress frustrated by her commoner status and a royal prince saddened by his lack of power, as they challenge their fates and societal norms. The drama premieres on the 10th at 9:40 PM.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr