IU and Byeon Woo-seok is Leaving Their Drama? Agencies Respond at Lightning Speed

K-pop icon IU and rising star Byeon Woo-seok have firmly denied reports that they are stepping down from the highly anticipated MBC drama '21st Century Prince’s Wife (official English title TBD)'.

On March 28, a local media outlet claimed that both actors had notified producers of their decision to withdraw from the project due to disagreements over broadcasting rights—reportedly between Disney+ and Netflix. The news quickly went viral, sparking speculation over the lead actors’ alleged departure.

However, both IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment and Byeon Woo-seok’s agency BARO Entertainment swiftly shut down the rumors, calling them “completely unfounded.” The article in question has since been deleted.

"IU is still part of the project and is working hard to meet fans’ expectations," EDAM stated.

BARO Entertainment echoed, “The rumor of Byeon Woo-seok dropping out is entirely false.”

21st Century Prince’s Wife is a romantic drama set in an alternate-reality South Korea, where constitutional monarchy still exists in the 21st century. The story revolves around a chaebol heiress and a royal prince who are divided by social class but drawn together by fate.

IU plays Sung Hee-joo, the second daughter of Korea’s most powerful conglomerate. Born with beauty, intelligence, and a fierce competitive spirit, she finds herself entangled with a royal prince after her “commoner” status becomes an unexpected obstacle in life.

Byeon Woo-seok stars as Prince Lee Ahn, the second son of the king. Though royalty by birth, he has lived in the shadows, unable to truly call anything his own. His life begins to change when he meets Hee-joo.

The script, which won excellence at the 2022 MBC drama script competition, is co-produced by MBC and Kakao Entertainment, with a premiere tentatively scheduled for late 2025. However, due to ongoing scheduling adjustments, a first-half 2026 release is also being considered.

The drama has generated intense buzz since its casting announcement, thanks to IU and Byeon’s on-screen reunion—their first full project together since a brief appearance in 2016’s 'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo'. Byeon previously shared his excitement in an interview, saying:

“Back then, I only had a short cameo as IU’s ex-boyfriend. I’ve been really looking forward to acting with her properly this time.”

Byeon also expressed what drew him to the script, “I told myself I needed to choose a project that moved me emotionally. When I read 21st Century Prince’s Wife, I was hooked. I said yes right away.”

With both stars showing genuine affection for the project, their rapid denial of the withdrawal rumors reflects their commitment—and may have only fueled public anticipation.

The series is drawing attention for its unique blend of modern setting and monarchical intrigue. It explores the clash between status and romance in a 21st-century society where royal hierarchy still exists.

Fans are especially eager to see IU bring Sung Hee-joo to life, following her acclaimed performances in 'My Mister' and 'When Life Gives You Tangerines'. Meanwhile, Byeon Woo-seok—who captivated global audiences in 'Lovely Runner'—is expected to showcase an entirely new side as a reserved, conflicted prince.

Though the release window remains flexible, 21st Century Prince’s Wife is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated K-dramas on the horizon.