A new cross-border romance is set to capture viewers’ hearts as Japanese actor Akaso Eiji and Korean singer-actress Kang Hye Won headline TV Tokyo’s upcoming drama Gimbap and Onigiri.

The series tells a tender love story between two young people from different countries who, despite cultural differences and personal uncertainties, find comfort and a powerful emotional connection through food and everyday moments.

Both leads are rising stars in their respective industries. Akaso Eiji has gained widespread recognition across Asia through films such as 366 Days and Kinki, praised for his emotional depth and striking visuals. Kang Hye Won, meanwhile, has steadily built her acting career with roles in Friendly Rivalry, The Player 2, Boyhood, and Seasons of Blossom, earning attention as a promising next-generation actress.

In the drama, Akaso portrays Hase Taiga, a former university track athlete whose once-promising future collapses after a major setback. Having lost his sense of direction, Taiga spends his days working part-time at a home-style restaurant, drifting through life without clear dreams or expectations.

Kang Hye Won plays Park Rin, a Korean graduate student navigating life in Japan. Torn between her aspirations and reality, Rin lives diligently but struggles with loneliness and the pressure of studying abroad. Her life begins to change after tasting Taiga’s cooking meals that slowly heal both her physical hunger and emotional fatigue.

Though coming from different countries, languages, and cultures, the two characters grow closer as they learn about each other’s lives and values. The series highlights not only romance, but also personal growth, healing, and the courage to move forward toward one’s dreams.

kang hye won

Anticipation is high for the chemistry between Akaso Eiji and Kang Hye Won, as their pairing represents a meaningful collaboration between Japan and Korea two entertainment industries with strong global influence.

Gimbap and Onigiri will premiere on January 12, airing every Monday at 11:06 PM (JST) on TV Tokyo, with global exclusive streaming on Netflix, allowing international audiences to experience the heartfelt story simultaneously.

Sources: Netizenbuzz