Netflix is set to unveil its latest cross-cultural romance series, “Romantics Anonymous,” starring beloved J-drama star Oguri Shun from Japan and acclaimed K-drama actress Han Hyo-joo from Korea.
“Romantics Anonymous” explores an unusual love story between Sosuke Fujiwara (Oguri Shun), an heir to a major confectionery company who suffers from severe germophobia, and Hana (Han Hyo-joo), a gifted chocolatier with an intense fear of eye contact. Despite their respective anxieties, the two find themselves curiously unaffected by each other—he can touch her without hesitation, and she can finally meet his gaze.
Their relationship unfolds within the charming walls of Le Sauveur, the popular chocolate shop where Hana secretly works as an anonymous chocolatier. When Sosuke takes over as the new head of Le Sauveur, their worlds collide in a slow-burn, tender journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and love.
J-drama and K-drama stars
J-drama star Oguri Shun has been a household name in Japan for nearly two decades. He first rose to fame through iconic series such as “Hana Yori Dango” (2005) and “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e” (2007). He later cemented his status with leading roles in blockbuster films like “Crows Zero” (2007) and “Lupin the 3rd” (2014).
More recently, he gained international recognition with his Hollywood debut in “Godzilla vs. Kong” (2021). With “Romantics Anonymous,” the J-drama star returns to romance.
For her part, Han Hyo-joo is best known for her award-winning performance in “Dong Yi” (2010), which earned her the Baeksang Arts Award for Best Actress. She later took on leading roles in “Brilliant Legacy” (2009) and the fantasy romance “W” (2016). She also starred in critically praised films like “Masquerade” (2012) and “The Beauty Inside” (2015).
In recent years, she has expanded her global profile with the Disney+ hit “Moving” (2023). In the series, her nuanced portrayal of a mother with superpowers received acclaim from fans and critics alike. With “Romantics Anonymous,” the K-drama actress again showcases her range in a heartfelt rom-com that bridges Korean and Japanese storytelling.
- Akanishi Jin as Hiro, Sosuke’s jazz bar-owning best friend and Hana’s secret crush
- Nakamura Yuri as Irene, Sosuke’s old friend and Hana’s counselor
- Narita Ryo as Fujiwara Takashi, Sosuke’s supportive cousin at work
- Ito Ayumi as Kawamura Motomi, Le Sauveur’s passionate chief chocolatier
- Okuda Eiji as Kuroiwa Kenji, the shop owner who empathizes with Hana’s struggles
- Sato Koichi as Fujiwara Shuntaro, Sosuke’s strict father and chairman of Futago Confectionery
First look at the teaser
Netflix has released the official teaser, offering a glimpse into the whimsical yet heartfelt romance. The teaser highlights Sosuke’s awkward but earnest attempts to run Le Sauveur, Hana’s quiet brilliance in the kitchen, and the unexpected spark that ignites when the two meet. With warm visuals, decadent chocolate, and tender chemistry between the leads, the trailer sets the tone for a story that blends humor, heartache, and healing.
“Romantics Anonymous” is directed by Tsukikawa Sho, celebrated for his poignant love stories. The crew brings together top Asian talent. They include Lee Ha-jun (“Parasite”) as production designer, Jin-mo Yang (“Parasite”) as editor, and Yamada Kosuke (“Beyond Goodbye”) as cinematographer. Also in the team isDalpalan, the award-winning South Korean music director, crafting the series’ emotional score.
“Romantics Anonymous” streams October 16, only on Netflix.
This article was written with the help of AI, based on a Netflix Newsroom story, and was reviewed and edited by the Hallyu Dorama team.
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