The Queen Who Crowns has sparked controversy from its very first episode due to excessive nudity and sexual scenes. Viewers are questioning whether the 15+ rating is appropriate for such content.
The drama portrays the fiery life journey of Queen Wongyeong (played by Cha Joo Young), who dreamed of a new world during the early Joseon Dynasty. She is depicted as a ‘kingmaker’ who made her husband, Yi Bang Won (Lee Hyun Wook), the third king, and a ‘co-founder of royal power’ who seized power alongside him. The 12-episode series stars Cha Joo Young, Lee Hyun Wook and Lee Sung Min. While the TV version is edited to meet a 15+ rating, the streaming platform TVING offers an uncut version rated for mature audiences only.
Following its premiere, the show drew criticism from some viewers who felt they were too graphic, particularly given the show’s 15+ rating. Some criticized the drama for prioritizing provocative content over its historical storyline.
Comments from viewers included: “This isn’t a historical drama; it’s soft porn”, “I love historical dramas, but I gave up after the first episode,” “It’s rated 15+, but is this really something kids should see?”, “I thought it was about King Taejo and watched it with my son. We were horrified”, “I recommended this to my friends because the teaser looked good, and now I feel embarrassed”, “Is this a historical drama or an affair drama?”
The first episode of the series centers around the conflict arising from Young Sil (played by Lee Si Ah), who gives birth to Lee Bang Won’s child. Young Sil was a maid in the service of Queen Wonkyung before Lee Bang Won ascended to the throne.
It begins with Lee Bang Won successfully seizing power after a rebellion. It also depicts King Taejo (played by Lee Sung Min), Lee Bang Won’s father, retreating into seclusion while plotting to assassinate his own son.
Despite Queen Wonkyung’s support for Lee Bang Won, including personally preparing his armor, he harbors resentment toward her family for their influence in the country. In order to curb the Queen and her family’s influence, Lee Bang Won deliberately brings Young Sil into the palace. This leads to a heated confrontation where Queen Wonkyung refuses to consummate their marriage.
The episode concludes with a shocking scene where Lee Bang Won invites Queen Wonkyung’s most trusted maid, Chae Ryeong, into his chambers.
Meanwhile, the premiere episode of The Queen Who Crowns recorded ratings of around 4%, reaching a peak of 5.9% in metropolitan areas and 5.7% nationwide, securing first place among cable and general programming channels in its time slot.
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The Queen Who Crowns releases its first two episodes on TVING every Monday at 2 PM, followed by broadcasts on tvN at 8:50 PM on Mondays and Tuesdays.
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