Kai, a member of Asia’s top group, EXO, will appear in his first ever Japanese drama! The drama is based off of a famous work by Japanese screenwriter, Mukoda Kuniko! This miraculous collaboration will become a WOWOW drama!
EXO is a world-class monster group which has gathered immense popularity in Japan, Korea, and China. In 2013 the group became the first million-seller in Korea in 12 years with their album, ‘XOXO’, allowing them to sweep up awards on the Korean music shows. Additionally, they were the only Asian artist to make it onto Billboard’s ’14 Artists to watch in 2014’ list. They have since earned the title of ‘Triple Million Seller’ in Korea, with the success of their two albums released after XOXO becoming globally recognised.
In the drama, ‘Spring Has Come’, the famous screenwriter Mukoda Kuniko accurately and lovingly portrays the subtleties of human relationships. Mukoda’s work, which typically depicts human relationships, has transcended generations and countries, being loved not just by the Japanese, but by many others around the world. This version of ’Spring Has Come’ is a modern remake of Mukoda’s greatest short, and it revolves around the universal theme of ‘family revival’. As a seriallised drama, the original story has been reworked and revised to resonate with the people of the current era, creating a bold work featuring human relationships and struggles.
The story focuses on a normal family that encounters a stranger. Little by little, the man’s presence brings to light a secret of the family. Featuring heart-wrenching love and the revival of a broken family, an amazing ‘human drama’ is born!
Story
An ordinary 31-year-old named Kishikawa Naoko is unmarried and works at the register in an underwear section of a department store. By chance, she ends up meeting a Korean photographer by the name of Lee Jiwoon (Kai of EXO). From that day onward, little by little Jiwoon’s presence changes Naoko’s family….
Cast and Comment
Leading actor: Kai (EXO)
This is your first appearance in a Japanese drama. Is there anything in particular you are excited about?
Kai: I was really happy when it was confirmed that I would star in my first Japanese drama. I’ve always been wondering what it’d be like to film a drama in Japan, so I’m very excited. I will be working in a different environment as well as trying out new things, but I want to work hard to bring a good production to fans. Also I would like to grow closer to Japanese actors as well as filming staff.
Please tell us what you expect from the shooting in Japan.
Kai: It’s my first time filming in Japan, but I am excited to experience the differences between Japanese and Korean locations. This will be my first time staying in Japan for a longer period, so I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to experience the variety of Japanese food and culture. I want to make lovely memories with everyone in Japan.
Please give a message to Japanese fans.
Kai: Hello. This is EXO’s Kai. I’ve mainly been able to meet you here in Japan through concerts, but this time, I have an opportunity to meet you through this drama, and that has a special meaning for me. I still have room for improvement, so in order to give everyone an amazing production, I want to work hard on the filming. Everyone, please look forward to 'Spring has Come’. Thank you very much!
Staff
Original writer: Mukoda Kuniko ‘Spring Has Come’ (including ’The Girl Next Door’)
Supervisor: Kawai Hayato (‘Teacher Suzuki’ ‘My Story!!’ ‘Cha☆Dan’)
Screenplay: Yoshida Yayoi
