The excitement surrounding IU’s recent project When Life Gives You Tangerines is still fresh, but her next venture with Byeon Woo Seok is already sparking curiosity. Earlier reports suggested that IU would be leaving the upcoming drama Wife of the 21st Century Prince, but the talented star had the perfect response to these rumors. She shared how she found out about the false reports and how convincing they were—so much so that she almost believed the lies herself.
IU addressed the rumors surrounding her supposed exit from the drama, expressing her surprise at reading such claims. She remarked, “I was really taken aback. In this industry, sometimes, smoke really does rise from the chimney without fire.” After reading the articles, she questioned if she had indeed stepped away from the project, joking, “Did I really drop out of the drama?”
Adding to the confusion, there were reports claiming Byeon Woo Seok had also backed out of the show, with rumors suggesting that production had stalled. However, IU quickly cleared the air. “I think it was all just a misunderstanding. Didn’t Woo Seok also say he wasn’t leaving? We’re both still in, and I’m looking forward to working with him,” she explained.
To put the rumors to rest, IU confirmed her continued participation in the drama, revealing, “I actually met with the director just yesterday to discuss the project.” She reassured fans that Byeon Woo Seok is just as committed, acknowledging the pressure both actors feel. “I won’t lie—there’s definitely pressure.”
IU also shared that her role in Wife of the 21st Century Prince is a stark contrast to her dual portrayal of Oh Ae Sun and Geum Myeong in When Life Gives You Tangerines, and this contrast excites her. “Today marks the end of When Life Gives You Tangerines promotions. Starting tomorrow, I’ll step into the role of Hui Ju,” she said, ready to embrace her new character.
The drama, set in a modern-day monarchy in Korea, follows Seong Hui Ju, a powerful, wealthy, and highly competitive woman who struggles with not being born into royalty. Her world collides with that of Prince Lee An, the king’s second son, whose title holds little value. The two navigate a turbulent path as their love story defies societal norms. IU will portray Seong Hui Ju, while Byeon Woo Seok will play the conflicted yet charming Prince Lee An.
