IU Proposes to Byun Wooseok: A Modern Twist on Love in ‘21st Century Great Lady’

[JoyNews24 reporter Lee Ji-young] IU's character surprised viewers by proposing to Byun Woo-seok's character.

On the episode broadcast on the 10th of MBC's '21st Century Great General's Wife,' Seong Hee-ju (IU) requested an audience with Grand Prince Ian (Byun Woo-seok).

That night, Seong He-ju was under family pressure to marry, but as the daughter of a concubine she couldn't find the kind of man she wanted.

Determined to meet someone who matched her abilities, wealth and appearance, Seong He-ju set out to search but came up empty. Eventually she thought of Grand Prince Ian and requested an audience with him.

Grand Prince Ian refused Seong Hee-ju's requests five times. She persisted—promoting herself as an entrepreneur and continuing to seek a meeting—but the prince kept saying no. Finally, she invoked their shared alma mater, presenting herself as a junior seeking his advice.

Remembering a school anecdote involving Seong Hee-ju, Grand Prince Ian relented and granted her a sixth audience.

When they finally met, the prince asked why she had been so eager to see him. Boldly, Seong Hee-ju replied, "I'm here to propose. Marry me."