Global Drama Fans Flock to IU and Byeon Woo-seok's New Drama—Record Set Even Before Finale

The popular Korean drama “21st Century Grand Lady” (Perfect Crown, referred to as “21st Century”) starring IU and Byeon Woo-seok has broken records, becoming the most-watched Korean drama globally on Disney+ within 28 days.

When promoting the series, IU confidently stated: "I have never lost the title of 'industry number one,' and the ‘21st Century Grand Lady’ team also produced this work with the goal of being the best in the business."

As expected, since its premiere on April 10, “21st Century” has rapidly attracted drama fans worldwide. Even before the series finishes broadcasting, it has already become the most-watched Korean drama in the United States and Canada, across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (including Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Italy), Latin America (including Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico), and the Asia-Pacific region (including Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Japan).

The total global viewing time on the Disney+ platform has reached 43 million hours. The number of views for episode 8 increased by 43% compared to the first episode's (7-day viewing volume).

“21st Century” tells the story of IU’s character, Seong Hee-joo, who is wealthy and powerful as the head of a major corporation, but lacks social status due to being an illegitimate child. Byeon Woo-seok plays Grand Prince Lee Wan, a beloved but name-only royal. The two enter a marriage of convenience, but as they interact, true feelings emerge. The series will air its final two episodes on Disney+ on May 15 and 16.

Byeon Woo-seok, who previously contributed vocals for the sensational drama “Run On With Seon Jae,” will officially perform the original soundtrack for “21st Century” and is slated to premiere the song on the 15th through the series.