Actors IU and Byun Woo-seok present a groundbreaking contract marriage romance set against the backdrop of a constitutional monarchy in South Korea.
The new MBC Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Duchess', premiering on April 10, has officially kicked off its promotional campaign by unveiling a couple poster featuring the overwhelming visuals and narratives of the lead actors. This work, anticipated to be the top project of the first half of 2026, has been specially scheduled for 9:40 PM, ten minutes earlier than usual, to effectively convey its vast world and dense narrative.
In the drama, IU plays the role of Seong Hee-joo, who has accumulated immense wealth but faces limitations due to her commoner status. In contrast, Byun Woo-seok portrays Lee An-daegun, a nobleman who, despite being the son of a king, cannot possess anything. The two embark on a contract marriage to fill their respective voids and achieve their goals, aiming to break down the solid walls of status that bind them.
The newly released poster captivates with its beautiful costumes showcasing Korean classical beauty and the elegant figures of the two leads. The firm gazes of IU and Byun Woo-seok, both looking in the same direction, represent their strong trust in each other and their determination to carve out their own destinies. The perfect acting chemistry reminiscent of a real royal couple is heightening the expectations of potential viewers.
The drama's production team stated, "The core point of interest is the narrative where Seong Hee-joo and Lee An-daegun, entangled in a contract marriage, embrace each other's wounds and gradually begin to look in the same direction. We hope viewers look forward to the dramatic changes the two characters will experience within the unique setting of status defiance."
An enchanting status-defying romance unfolds in the fictional constitutional monarchy of South Korea. MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' will meet viewers on Friday, April 10, at 9:40 PM.
