*This content was translated by AI.

IU perfectly embodied the bold and self-possessed character of Seong Hee-ju in the drama '21st Century Grand Duchess,' making her presence truly shine.
In episodes 5 and 6 of the MBC Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' (script by Yoo Ji-won; directed by Park Jun-hwa and Bae Hee-young; planned by Kang Dae-seon; produced by MBC and Kakao Entertainment), which aired on the 24th and 25th, the story unfolded following a car accident, depicting the deepening relationship between Seong Hee-ju and Prince Lee An. IU, portraying Seong Hee-ju, skillfully conveyed the character's evolving emotional arc in line with the plot's progression, heightening viewer immersion.
After waking up in the hospital following the car accident, Seong Hee-ju showed concern first for His Highness and Prince Lee An rather than herself. Through her gaze, expressions, and tone of voice directed at Prince Lee An, she delicately expressed complex emotions, further drawing viewers into the story. When her marriage to Prince Lee An was called off and she was expelled from the palace, she simultaneously displayed confusion and disappointment while revealing a resilient inner strength, adding depth to the character.
In scenes of conflict with Prince Lee An, Seong Hee-ju's personality became even more distinct. Lines such as "This is how you protect someone. You counterattack with an attack," and "I asked for my status, not for a comfortable cradle," strongly imprinted her independent and bold nature. IU conveyed these moments persuasively with a stable vocal tone and solid acting skills, leaving a powerful impression.

In the following episode 6, the relationship between the two characters deepened further. The waltz and proposal scene at the ballroom, enhanced by lavish direction, completed a dramatic romance. IU naturally expressed emotions where excitement and tension coexisted. Even after returning to the palace, Seong Hee-ju's presence remained strong. During a meal with Yoon I-rang, she maintained propriety without losing her own stance, and in a scene where she firmly took Prince Lee An's hand and left the room, she revealed her reliable and steadfast nature.
In the yacht date scene, another emotional layer unfolded, and the romantic chemistry between Seong Hee-ju and Prince Lee An stood out. Amidst natural communication and a relaxed atmosphere, she smoothly conveyed both excitement and a sense of liberation, gently guiding the character's emotional shifts. In the subsequent kiss scene, she delicately portrayed the moment where fluster and excitement intertwined, fully conveying Seong Hee-ju's emotions and captivating the audience's attention.
In episodes 5 and 6 of '21st Century Grand Duchess,' IU brought the character of Seong Hee-ju to life with flexible emotional range, making her more three-dimensional. She delicately depicted the character's changing emotional arc through her gaze, vocal tone, and detailed expressions, enhancing the character's persuasiveness. By stably building a figure with a resilient inner strength and independent attitude, she added weight to the entire drama. Anticipation continues to grow for the narrative and relationship changes of Seong Hee-ju that IU will portray in the future.
Meanwhile, the MBC Friday-Saturday drama '21st Century Grand Duchess,' starring IU, airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 p.m.
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*This content was translated by AI.
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