Overview
- The finale coronation sequence, shown in mid‑May and widely discussed after the May 16 episode, drew heavy criticism for using the chant “cheonse” and a nine‑tassel crown that critics say signal tributary status rather than Korean sovereignty.
- MBC’s production team issued a formal apology and pledged to correct audio and subtitles for streaming and re‑runs, and the director and screenwriter have publicly accepted responsibility.
- Lead actors IU and Byeon Woo‑seok posted personal apologies saying they failed to consider the historical context of the scenes they performed.
- Publishers and producers are offering targeted fixes for printed script books and digital editions rather than full recalls, while the Voluntary Agency Network of Korea has asked Disney+ for international corrections.
- The dispute has prompted the Korea Media and Communications Commission to review possible recovery of public promotion funds and has renewed calls from historians for formal fact‑checking systems for fantasy or alternate‑history K‑dramas.