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The new drama "Gimbap and Onigiri," starring Eiji Akaso and Kang Hyewon (ex-IZ*ONE), premiered on TV Tokyo and Netflix on January 12, 2026. This highly anticipated Japan-Korea collaboration is making waves globally with its exclusive Netflix release.
This article will be updated weekly with episode summaries, highlights, and must-watch points through to the finale (Updated: Episode 1).
👉Watch "Gimbap and Onigiri" on Netflix now!
The Heartwarming Story of "Gimbap and Onigiri"
This series is a pure-hearted romance exploring the connection between two people from Japan and Korea. Just like their namesakes—onigiri and gimbap—the protagonists appear similar at first glance but carry unique "flavors" shaped by their respective cultures. The drama beautifully captures their journey as they navigate cultural nuances and find common ground through the simple joy of sharing a meal.
A Star-Studded Cast & Crew from Japan and Korea
The buzz surrounding this series isn't just about Eiji Akaso and Kang Hyewon. The supporting cast features rising star Moon Jihu and the versatile Seo Hyewon, both beloved by K-drama fans for their standout performances.
Adding to the show's authenticity, the script is co-written by Lee Nawon, the acclaimed Korean screenwriter behind the TBS hit "Take Me to the End of Hell." This collaboration ensures a perfect blend of Japanese and Korean storytelling styles, making every episode feel both realistic and deeply moving.
Episode 1 Recap: "The First Bite"
Taiga Hase (Eiji Akaso) was once the "ace" of his university’s ekiden (long-distance relay) team, a runner with a promising future. Now, having lost his dreams, he spends his days working at a small restaurant called "Tanomi." One day, the owner challenges Taiga to develop a brand-new menu item.
Meanwhile, Park Lin (Kang Hyewon) has moved from Korea to Japan to study animation. Exhausted from the pressure of her assignments and the struggle of house hunting, she wanders into "Tanomi" late one night. The sight of Lin happily devouring the onigiri Taiga prepared—her face lighting up with a radiant smile—leaves a lasting impression on him.
Seeking inspiration for his new menu from Korean cuisine, Taiga asks Lin for her feedback during her next visit. As they finally introduce themselves, Lin asks about his dreams. After a moment of hesitation, Taiga admits, "I don’t have any dreams. I only started this job as an extension of my part-time work." Lin responds with an innocent smile, "So you are in training. Just like me." This unexpected perspective softens Taiga’s heart, and they exchange contact information. However, Taiga later spots Lin talking intimately with another man and finds himself hesitating to reach out.
A week later, a message from Lin leads to a reunion where they clear up the misunderstanding and confirm they are both single. When a sudden rainstorm begins, they take shelter inside a vintage train car glowing with decorative lights. There, Taiga learns about Lin’s housing difficulties. As a sudden clap of thunder startles them, bringing them closer together, Taiga offers to help her find an apartment.
Three Must-Watch Highlights in Episode 1
Episode 1 is packed with charming moments that highlight the subtle cultural differences between Japan and Korea, along with respectful nods to iconic K-drama tropes.
1. Cultural Contrasts in Exchanging Contacts
A particularly memorable moment occurs when the two exchange contact information. Taiga is momentarily bewildered when Lin hands her smartphone directly to him. While it is standard in Japan to scan QR codes on apps like LINE, in Korea, it is often the norm to type your number directly into the other person's device. Discovering these small, realistic cultural nuances is one of the true joys of this drama.
2. The "Jacket Umbrella" and an Homage to a Classic
The scene where Taiga spreads his jacket to shield both of them from the sudden rain is a quintessential "K-drama move." In the show, Lin herself mentions that it feels like the movie "The Classic". This is a beautiful homage to a masterpiece of Korean romantic cinema—a legendary motif that continues to inspire romance stories today.
3. The Enchanting Lights of the Night Train
At the climax, the lights suddenly flicker on inside the train where they have taken shelter. The breathtaking beauty of the glowing carriage floating in the quiet night park evokes the lyrical visual style characteristic of high-end Korean dramas. It serves as a perfectly romantic backdrop as the distance between Taiga and Lin finally narrows.
Main Cast of "Gimbap and Onigiri"
Taiga Hase / Eiji Akaso
Once famous as the "ace" of his university's ekiden (long-distance relay) team, Taiga is now a young man without dreams, working at the small restaurant "Tanomi." Meeting Rin becomes the spark that gets his stalled life moving again.
Lead actor Eiji Akaso starred in the drama "Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!", which became a massive social phenomenon across Asia. To convincingly play a former runner, Akaso reportedly dedicated himself to intense strength training even between shoots to build a runner’s physique.
Park Rin / Kang Hyewon
A graduate student who moved from Korea to Japan to study animation. Although she struggles with the challenges of living abroad, she finds comfort and healing in the food Taiga prepares.
The heroine is played by Kang Hyewon, a former member of the global sensation IZ*ONE. Now focusing on her acting career, she impressed the crew by communicating almost entirely in Japanese with Akaso on set, showcasing her incredible professionalism.
Kang Junho / Moon Jihu
A Korean friend who supports Lin in Japan. Lin affectionately calls him "Oppa" (a term Korean women use for older brothers or close older male friends), and their close bond hints at a potential rivalry for Taiga’s heart.
Moon Jihu, a talented actor beloved by young fans in Asia as a "prince" of web dramas, brings a smart and charming presence to the role.
Shigeo Taguchi / Mitsuru Fukikoshi
The owner of "Tanomi" and a mentor figure to Taiga. He encourages Taiga’s growth by entrusting him with the new menu and offering wise life advice.
Mitsuru Fukikoshi is a veteran Japanese actor known for his profound performances across theater, film, and TV. His unique presence provides a solid emotional foundation for the story.
Lee Yungyeol / Seo Hyewon
Lin’s best friend living in South Korea, with whom she talks online almost every day.
Seo Hyewon is a scene-stealer whose charming performances in hits like "Business Proposal" and "Alchemy of Souls" are still fresh in fans' memories. Her bright energy makes her an indispensable presence in any drama she joins.
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