MBC's Friday-Saturday K-drama <21st Century Crown Princess> left viewers heartbroken in episode 9 as IU (as Sung Hee-joo) tearfully requested a divorce from Byun Woo-seok (as Prince Ian). The couple faces a crisis after their contract marriage details are leaked, raising questions about their future.
Contract Marriage Leak: How IU & Byun Woo-seok Face Crisis
Episode 9 of the MBC K-drama <21st Century Crown Princess> reached peak tension when the prenuptial agreement between Sung Hee-joo (IU) and Prince Ian (Byun Woo-seok) was leaked. Hee-joo found herself bombarded with questions about the contract marriage and divorce timing during a lecture at her alma mater. Prince Ian appeared, taking her hand and leading her away, signaling their deepening feelings beyond the agreement. Later, with the help of Min Jung-woo (Noh Sang-hyun), they sought refuge. However, the situation worsened when Hee-joo was implicated in a palace fire, and Prince Ian faced accusations of using his power to cover it up. Rumors of him seeking the throne intensified, placing them under immense political pressure and royal scrutiny.
Choosing Separation for Love? IU's Tears, Byun Woo-seok's Confession
Prince Ian confessed his true feelings for Hee-joo, stating, “Only the beginning was fake,” but the ‘divorce after 3 years’ clause in their contract made a future together uncertain. Facing public backlash for allegedly selling royal status, Hee-joo even knelt before her father to protect Prince Ian. Upon returning to the palace, Hee-joo embraced Prince Ian and tearfully declared, “Let’s get divorced,” a heartbreaking decision made to protect each other. This scene left a deep impression on viewers, amplifying curiosity about the unfolding plot.
Viewer Reactions & Episode 9 Criticisms
While episode 9 heightened the emotional intensity and viewer engagement with the protagonists' feelings, some viewers expressed frustration with certain plot points. The dramatic impact of a single prenuptial agreement on the entire nation, and the protagonists seemingly being dragged along without clear solutions, were points of criticism. Some noted that more significant secrets, like the late King's will stored in a safe, were overshadowed by the contract issue. The sudden shift in Min Jung-woo's role and his increased agency also felt underdeveloped. Despite these criticisms, the poignant performances by IU and Byun Woo-seok were enough to keep viewers invested.
<21st Century Crown Princess> Episode 10 Preview: Relationship Strain & Power Struggles
The preview for episode 10 of <21st Century Crown Princess> hints at significant relationship turmoil following Hee-joo's divorce declaration. With the contract marriage news spreading nationwide, internal royal pressure and political infighting are expected to escalate. Notably, Min Jung-woo’s demand for the end of Prince Ian’s regency suggests major shifts in the royal power structure. The movements of the Yoon Sung-won faction are also becoming more prominent, indicating a transition from a simple romance to a more intense battle for the throne. Prince Ian is visibly hurt by Hee-joo's decision to divorce, but Hee-joo later finds him, vowing to protect him, hinting at a potential reconciliation.
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