Japanese remakes announced for popular K-Dramas
First up, 'Suspicious Partner', the 2017 legal romance drama starring Ji Chang Wook and Nam Ji Hyun, will premiere its Japanese version on April 29, 2025. The remake, led by Yusei Yagi and Kyoko Saito, will be available to stream on Disney+ in Japan, South Korea, and other parts of Asia.
While the original series only achieved moderate ratings in Korea, it became a global sensation following its release on Netflix. The story centres around a young prosecutor trainee who becomes entangled in a murder case, with her mentor stepping in to defend her. Speaking about the project, Yagi said he was honoured to take on a role made famous by Ji Chang Wook, while Saito promised a version packed with unexpected twists, romance, and suspense.
Meanwhile, the award-winning psychological thriller Beyond Evil will also receive a Japanese adaptation. Originally aired in 2021 and winner of three Baeksang Awards, the gripping drama explores morality and trauma as two detectives hunt for a serial killer linked to a 20-year-old cold case.
The Japanese version of Beyond Evil will air on WOWOW in July 2025, starring Ken Yasuda and Koshi Mizukami. Although the core storyline will remain intact, the adaptation will be tailored to reflect Japanese culture and storytelling styles.
Both remakes highlight the continued influence of Korean dramas in the Japanese market and the broader region, offering fans a chance to experience these beloved stories with a fresh perspective.
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