10 Recommendations for Korean and Japanese Drama Collaborations That Are Becoming More Popular, Here’s the Latest List

Kapanlagi.com - The Asian entertainment world continues to evolve rapidly, especially with cross-country collaborations like those between Japan and South Korea. These two countries are known for their strong visual culture as well as emotional and touching storytelling. It’s no surprise that when they collaborate, the results can captivate audiences across borders.

This collaboration also brings a unique chemistry between actors and actresses, merging Eastern cultures with different cinematic nuances. Not only relying on popularity, the dramas and Korean-Japanese collaborative films also offer strong narratives and high-quality production. These collaborations often explore emotional issues, cross-cultural themes, and historical conflicts.

In this article, we present a chronological list of various Japanese-Korean collaborative films and dramas, from older releases to the latest works airing now. Here are some recommendations.

1. WHAT COMES AFTER LOVE (2024)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:instagram.com/coupangplay)

This drama is adapted from the novel Sarang Hue Oneun Geotdeul by Kong Ji Young and Hitonari Tsuji. Premiering on September 27, 2024, on Coupang Play, the drama immediately gained attention due to the visuals and acting of Lee Se Young and Kentaro Sakaguchi.

The story centers on Choi Hong, a Korean student who meets Jungo Aoki in Japan. Their relationship is separated by time and country, but fate brings them back together in Seoul after five years.

2. EYE LOVE YOU (2024)

Collaboration between Korea and Japan in drama (credit:asianwiki)

This drama presents a unique story about Yuri Motomiya, a Japanese woman who has the ability to hear thoughts. When she meets Yoon Tae O from Korea, Yuri's life begins to change.

Their relationship develops slowly and is filled with emotional tension. Starring Fumi Nikaido and Chae Jong Hyeop, this drama highlights wordless communication and openness of heart.

3. PACHINKO (2022)

Collaboration between Korea and Japan in drama (credit:instagram.com/appletv)

Set in the 20th century, this drama tells the story of Kim Sun Ja from Busan. Sun Ja becomes involved in a complex relationship with a Japanese man during the colonial period.

The journey of her family is followed from generation to generation, reaching Japan and America. Starring Kim Min Ha and Lee Min Ho, this drama has won various international awards.

4. THE JOURNALIST (2019)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:instagram.com/netflixid)

Shim Eun Kyung became the first Korean actress to win the Japan Academy Prize for her role in this film. She plays Erika, an integrity-driven Japanese journalist.

The story is filled with tension between the media world and Japanese bureaucrats. This film showcases the strength of women in a world dominated by political interests.

5. THE ASIAN ANGEL (2021)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:asianwiki)

This film highlights the story of Takeshi and his sister, Taru, who live in Seoul. The two work together to survive and run a small business.

The story becomes more interesting when they meet Choi Seol, a cheerful market singer. This simple yet emotional tale shows how brotherhood and music can heal wounds.

6. THE SUN DOES NOT MOVE (2021)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:asianwiki)

This film features a collaboration of Korean and Japanese actors in the world of industrial espionage. Han Hyo Joo and Ahn Bo Hyun face off against Tatsuya Fujiwara and Ryoma Takeuchi.

A story full of tension, intrigue, and strategies between agents from the two countries. This film is a must-watch for action fans with an international backdrop.

7. FRIENDS (2022)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:instagram.com/mbcdrama_now)

Produced jointly by MBC and TBS, this drama tells the story of Tomoko and Ji Hoon. They meet in Hong Kong and become involved in a misunderstanding that turns into love.

Their relationship is tested by distance and cultural differences. However, the ongoing communication makes this drama relevant to relationships in today's digital age.

8. BOKU TO STAR NO 99 NICHI (2011)

Korean and Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:instagram.com/fujitv_official)

Kim Tae Hee plays Han Yoo Na, a Korean artist working in Japan. She is paired with Kohei, a quiet and reserved Japanese man.

Initially incompatible, their relationship develops over time. This drama presents light yet touching conflicts between two different cultures.

9. OISHII MAN (2009)

Korean-Japanese collaboration in drama (credit:asianwiki)

Lee Min Ki plays a Korean musician who loses his hearing. He goes to Japan and meets Megumi, a Japanese woman who helps restore his spirit.

This story depicts emotional healing through friendship and love. The rural Japanese visuals provide a calming backdrop in this film.

10. THE SECRET MESSAGE (2015)

Korea and Japan collaboration in drama (credit:asianwiki)

T.O.P BigBang and Ueno Juri star in this emotional cross-country drama. They play two individuals from different backgrounds but with similar inner wounds.

Their stories intertwine through secret messages that form a deep emotional connection. This drama touches on themes of loss, hope, and inner healing.

Come, read articles about other Japanese-Korean drama recommendations at Kapanlagi.com. If not now, when, KapanLagi?

(kpl/vna)