According to Nielsen Korea, episode 1 of "Perfect crown" achieved an average rating (viewer rating) of 7.8% nationwide and 8.2% in the Seoul region. The film topped weekend drama ratings and ranked first in the entire program broadcast on Friday nights in the Seoul region, a very favorable start.
In the 20-54 age audience group - an important indicator reflecting media consumption trends - the film achieved 3.8%, winning a "triple" when it topped all three categories: Seoul, 20-54 group and nationwide.
In particular, the scene of Sung Hee Joo being refused an audience but then continuing to ask to meet again with the reason pushed the rating per minute in the Seoul area to the highest level of 9.3%.
In this episode, the journey of female tycoon Sung Hee Joo (played by IU) - who desires to advance her status - leading to her marriage proposal to the royal family Lee An (played by Byeon Woo Seok) has been depicted, drawing viewers into the context of the 21st century constitutional monarchy.
Sung Hee Joo - CEO of Castle Beauty - always leads in every field but cannot escape the limits of ordinary status and illegitimate children. Prejudiced looks and hidden discrimination gradually make a Hee Joo who is always strong also begin to withdraw.
Meanwhile, the army leader Lee An - who is replacing the young king in handling court affairs - is also living in restraint because of his second prince status, not allowed to shine or speak out. Even dressing up for love for his grandson is accused by public opinion of being an "aggressive" act, showing his fragile position in the royal family.
The circumstances of both also affect the choice of marriage. Hee Joo is angry when her father chooses an inappropriate partner for her, while Lee An is under pressure from Grand Concubine Yoon Yi Rang (played by Gong Seung Yeon), demanding to marry the person he chooses to show support for the king.
Faced with that situation, Hee Joo decided to find her own marriage partner. She suddenly remembered Lee An - who she had met at the king's birthday party. With perfect appearance, ability, wealth and status, she came up with a bold plan: marry him to change her life. And she immediately asked for her opinion.
However, Lee An continuously refused, further boosting Hee Joo's conquering spirit.
When she finally sat opposite him after many failures, Hee Joo did not make detours but directly sent a marriage proposal letter, saying: "Please marry me".
The unexpected offer made Lee An smile meaningfully, making the audience curious whether he would accept it or not. The answer will be in episode 2 broadcast on the evening of April 11.
In the opening episode of "Perfect crown", Sung Hee Joo's family conflicts and royal conflicts surrounding Lee An intertwined, highlighting the reason why the female lead decided to propose.
The acting of the cast also contributes to increasing the immersion right from the first episode.
