IU and Byun Woo-seok are reuniting after 10 years to showcase their matured chemistry.
A press conference for the new MBC Friday-Saturday drama ’21st Century Grand Duke’s Wife,’ starring IU and Byun Woo-seok, took place on the 6th at Josun Palace in Gangnam, Seoul.
Byun Woo-seok, who rose to fame with ‘Lovely Runner,’ and IU, acclaimed through ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines,’ are sparking public interest with their collaboration.
Notably, IU and Byun Woo-seok first collaborated a decade ago, drawing attention once more. Previously, IU explained in a ‘Pingkego’ segment that “Byun played a cheating boyfriend in the drama ‘Moon Lovers.’ That was our first collaboration.”
Reflecting on reuniting with Byun after 10 years, IU jokingly said, “Byun has returned with the resolve to redeem past mistakes with an amazing character.”
She added, “I don’t think there was any awkwardness. Although we didn’t interact for 10 years, there was a comfort between us,” reflecting on their chemistry.
She also expressed her desire to work with him again in 10 years, as their collaboration this year was so harmonious.
Byun commented, “I liked being able to show an extended chemistry this time. IU’s support and help with acting made the shoot enjoyable.”
Meanwhile, ’21st Century Grand Duke’s Wife’ draws attention with its stunning visuals, merging tradition and modernity.
Director Park remarked, “The greatest charm of ‘Grand Duke’s Wife’ is our actors. The visual aspects during filming were fascinating, and it was enjoyable to monitor.”
In response to comparisons with the palace romance drama ‘Princess Hours,’ he said, “‘Princess Hours’ is an exemplary drama, and we’ve worked hard to make ours a memorable drama of 2026 as well.”
The actors expressed affection for their characters.
IU, playing Seong Hee-joo, said, “Though she’s often irritated and ambitious, she’s also cute. I was charmed by the script and joined without hesitation.”
Byun Woo-seok, portraying Ian Daegun, described his character as “the nation’s favorite royal, the second son who mustn’t be too conspicuous,” promising to showcase a dignified royal figure.
The first broadcast of ’21st Century Grand Duke’s Wife’ featuring IU and Byun Woo-seok will air on the 10th at 9:40 PM on MBC.
