Just one episode before its finale, MBC drama “Perfect Crown” is once again facing heated online criticism in South Korea — this time over royal terminology, ceremonial details and accusations of historical distortion. Episode 11 of the drama aired Friday and featured a dramatic sequence in which Seong Hee-joo, played by IU, risked her life to save Grand Prince Ian, played by Byeon Woo-seok, before he ultimately ascended to the throne. But while the series continued its strong ratings streak, online discussion quickly shifted away from the romance and toward the show’s depiction of royal rituals. One scene drew criticism after royal officials shouted “Cheonse,” rather than “Manse,” during the coronation ceremony. Some viewers argued that “Cheonse” historically referred to expressions used by tributary states toward an emperor, making its use by a 21st-centuray constitutional monarchy inappropriate. Others pointed to the king’s ceremonial crown, saying it featured nine bead strings instead of the 12-string design associated with sovereign rulers. Another scene that sparked debate
