IU Expresses Excitement for '21st Century Grand Duchess' with Co-star Byeon Woo-seok

IU shared her anticipation for the upcoming drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' alongside co-star Byeon Woo-seok.

On the 6th, a press conference for MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' was held at the Josun Palace Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by IU, Byeon Woo-seok, Noh Sang-hyun, Gong Seung-yeon, Yoo Soo-bin, Lee Yeon, and director Park Joon-hwa. Unlike MBC's usual practice of holding press conferences at the Sangam Golden Mouse Hall, this event was notably held at a hotel, drawing attention.

'21st Century Grand Duchess' is set against the backdrop of a 21st-century constitutional monarchy, depicting a romance that breaks social status barriers between a woman who has everything but is dissatisfied with her commoner status and a man who is a prince but can have nothing.

In the drama, IU plays the role of Seong Hee-joo, a chaebol who has everything except noble status. When asked about her expectations for viewership ratings, she was requested to answer in both her character's and her own perspective. In Seong Hee-joo's version, she confidently stated, "We've never lost the title of industry leader. The 'Grand Duchess' team will also aim for the top."

In her own version, IU added, "We are working hard on promotions, and with the support of many, filming has wrapped up, and the director is diligently working on it. We are now actively promoting and enjoying every moment to the fullest."

IU expressed her admiration for director Park Joon-hwa, saying, "As a fan who enjoyed the director's previous works, I asked those who have worked with him, and there wasn't a single negative comment. It was surprising and made me realize how beloved he is in the industry. Even when things got tough on set, he always led us with a bright spirit. His expertise in comedy and romance was evident, and he constantly provided ideas beyond the script, which was the source of our strength." She added, "When the romance heats up, the director's specialty shines. Look forward to it."

Director Park Joon-hwa is known for his hit series such as 'Rude Miss Young-ae,' 'Let's Eat,' 'Because This Is My First Life,' 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim,' and 'Alchemy of Souls.'

'21st Century Grand Duchess' premieres on the 10th at 9:40 PM.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr