Netizens React to IU’s “Poorly Done” Press-On Nails in “Perfect Crown”
IU herself has also explained why her character wears press-ons.
by Kyla Villena
Published on May 5, 2026
K-dramas are loved globally for many reasons, and part of this is how thoughtfully and carefully they are made in every aspect. This is reflected in costume design, too, where every detail has the power to captivate and immerse audiences in the world they have built. And yes, even something as seemingly trivial as fingernails is no exception.
In the case of Perfect Crown, starring IU as Seong Hui-Ju and Byeon Woo Seok as Prince I-An, the story is set in modern-day Korea under a constitutional monarchy. Hui-Ju is a competitive chaebol heiress who enters a contract marriage with the crown prince regent.
The romantic comedy series is definitely engaging. However, in an episode where Hui-Ju’s hands were shown up close to show off her engagement ring, netizens couldn’t help but shift their attention to her nails.
Netizens React to IU’s Press-on Nails in “Perfect Crown”
Netizens have flocked to social media to raise how “bothered” they are about IU’s “poorly done” press-on nails.
By the looks of it, there is an undeniable gap between her cuticles and the attached nails, possibly due to them being the wrong size. As one netizen put it, “the press-ons are not pressing.”
Other netizens raised that even small details—like the quality of a character’s press-on nails—can cause inconsistencies in a story. In Perfect Crown, IU portrays a wealthy businesswoman who should certainly be able to afford high-quality press-ons or a skillful nail technician.
IU Explains Why Her Character Wears Press-On Nails
In a behind-the-scenes vlog, IU broke down the details of her character’s look, including her fake nails.
"Hui-Ju is also a celebrity who gets photographed a lot wherever she goes.” She explained that she built and approached her character with the idea that “she puts on the nails when she comes to work or goes to an event," but her actual fingernails remain short.
While netizens have understandable reactions to the appearance of Hui-Ju’s nails, many have also acknowledged that they may be intentional and represent a pivotal moment in the character's life that we have yet to see.
Some continue to stand their ground, arguing that although Hui-Ju is in her “facade era,” they could have kept her nails neatly polished throughout the show.
What do you think of IU's press-on nails? Join the conversation by leaving a comment!
Kyla Villena loves a good lip gloss and a trip to the art gallery. She is Preview's beauty girl, who doubles as a self-proclaimed motivational speaker.
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