A brand-new romantic drama is on its way—and it's bringing major star power. MBC has confirmed the production of The 21st Century Crown Princess, set to air as a Friday–Saturday drama in the first half of next year.
🎬 Modern Monarchy Meets Forbidden Romance
Set in a fictional 21st-century constitutional monarchy, the story follows a status-flipped romance between an heiress from a wealthy family and a royal prince.
- IU stars as Seong Hee-joo, the sharp, elegant second daughter of a chaebol family. Despite her success, she's held back by her non-noble status. In a strategic move to elevate her position, she chooses to marry into royalty.
- Byeon Woo-seok plays Grand Prince Lee An, the king's second son. Though adored by the public, he's powerless in the palace. Cold on the outside, his emotional depth begins to shift as he grows closer to Hee-joo.
💫 Supporting Cast Adds Dramatic Tension
- Noh Sang-hyun as Min Jung-woo, the prime minister's son and Hee-joo's college senior—caught between friendship and something more
- Gong Seung-yeon as Yoon Yi-rang, a woman born into a royal family who believes she's destined to be queen—no matter the cost
🎥 Directed by Romance Pro Park Joon-hwa
The series will be helmed by Park Joon-hwa, known for hits like What's Wrong with Secretary Kim and Alchemy of Souls. His signature romantic flair and eye for emotional detail are set to bring this modern royal tale to life.
📚 Award-Winning Script, Years in the Making
Originally a 2022 MBC Screenwriting Contest Winner, the drama spent three years in planning and development.
EP Kang Dae-sun shared,
"The 21st Century Crown Princess shines with its unique concept, compelling characters, and tightly woven plot. Having IU, Byeon Woo-seok, Noh Sang-hyun, and Gong Seung-yeon on board is truly a dream lineup."
Filming is set to begin soon, with a 2026 premiere date in the works.
[Photo Credit: MBC]
