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IU & Byun Woo-seok Drama Set for 2026 Release, Joined by Noh Sang-hyun and Gong Seung-yeon

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The highly anticipated MBC Friday-Saturday drama “The 21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife,” previously expected to air in late 2025, has officially been scheduled for the first half of 2026.

Starring IU and Byun Woo-seok, the drama has also confirmed Noh Sang-hyun and Gong Seung-yeon as part of its lead cast. Noh Sang-hyun left a strong impression with bold performances in “Pachinko” and “Laws of the City,” while Gong Seung-yeon earned praise for her solid acting in “My Only 12%” and “The First Responders.” This marks the first time all four actors will appear in an MBC drama, fueling excitement over their on-screen chemistry.

Noh Sang-hyun plays Prime Minister Min Jung-woo, Lee Wan’s childhood friend and confidant. Coming from a distinguished political family and being the third-generation prime minister, he is considered Korea’s most eligible bachelor. His connections to both leads stir emotional tension as the contract marriage develops.

Gong Seung-yeon takes on the role of Yoon Yi-rang, born into a family that has produced four queens. A woman who has never doubted her fate as the next queen, she is poised, elegant, and determined to uphold her destiny, no matter the cost.

Previously, according to a report from Hankyung.com on April 4, Gong Seung-yeon has received an offer to join the cast and is in the final stages of consideration. Her agency, Varo Entertainment, confirmed, “She has received the offer and is positively reviewing it.”

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Gong Seung yeon

On the same day, a representative from Noh Sang-hyun’s agency, Eco Global Group, officially stated to OSEN, “It is true that we received an offer for ’21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife’ from the production team. However, we have neither confirmed participation nor are we in positive discussions about it. At present, it remains under review with nothing finalized.”

Set in a fictional 21st-century constitutional monarchy, the series follows Sung Hee-joo (played by IU), a second daughter of a powerful chaebol family who has everything but noble status, and Grand Prince Lee Wan (Byun Woo-seok), a royal born with everything except the power to claim anything. Their contract marriage becomes the starting point of a bold romance that challenges class boundaries and changes their destinies.

IU Shuts Down 'Wife of a 21st Century Prince' Exit Rumors With Byeon Woo Seok thumbnail

The project won the 2022 MBC drama scriptwriting competition with overwhelming support from judges, praised for its charming, progressive characters and engaging story centered on ambition and romance. Over three years of development followed, with Kakao Entertainment joining as co-producer, positioning the series as one of the most anticipated K-dramas of 2026.

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However, the project has not been without complications. The production has reportedly faced multiple delays, and its broadcast schedule remains unclear. Rumors of the lead actors potentially dropping out have also circulated online, although no official announcements have been made. These uncertainties have only fueled fan curiosity about how the final cast and release timeline will shape up.

Gong Seung-yeon Noh Sang-hyun

As “21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife” continues production, anticipation grows not only for its unique storyline but also for how its talented cast and behind-the-scenes developments will come together. The drama is scheduled to premiere next year on MBC.

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