In an exciting announcement, MBS TV has unveiled plans to Japanese remake the hit 2017 Korean drama "Suspicious Partner," originally starring Ji Chang-wook. Featuring a captivating blend of romance and suspense, the remake is set to air on April 29, 2025, starring Yusei Yagi from the dance and vocal group FANTASTICS and actress Keiko Saito, formerly of Hinatazaka46.
The story follows prosecutor Haruto Tateishi, played by Yagi, who is known as the "worst prosecutor" by his colleagues, and legal trainee Saki Miyashita, played by Saito. This unique pairing promises to deliver a thrilling narrative that interweaves their budding romance with intriguing mysteries. The series showcases how an unexpected encounter between the diligent prosecutor and the outgoing legal trainee changes the course of their lives.
Yusei Yagi expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "I feel honored to play the role originally portrayed by Ji Chang-wook, whom I've known for a while. I never thought I'd have the chance to take on a character with such significance in the original series, and I feel a deep connection to the story." His commitment hints at a performance that aims to do justice to Ji's beloved portrayal.
Keiko Saito echoed these sentiments, sharing her excitement about the dynamics of the story: "This series will be filled with unexpected developments and a mix of romance and suspense. Each character possesses unique traits that will keep viewers engaged from start to finish. I hope everyone will come to love the Japanese version of 'Suspicious Partner' as much as we do!"
The upcoming drama will air on MBS every Tuesday at 0:59 AM and on TBS at 1:28 AM. It’s scheduled to engage the audience with its captivating storyline blended with comedic and suspenseful elements. Saito’s character, Saki, becomes embroiled in various situations that challenge her aspirations to become a lawyer, all while interacting with the complex and often exasperated Haruto.
The production is led by director Arisa Kawa, known for her previous works including the movie "Yamada-kun to Lv999 no Koi wo Suru." Kawa expressed her enthusiasm about the lead actors, saying, "Working with Yusei Yagi and Keiko Saito, who both bring fresh charm to their roles, really excites me. We aim to create a hybrid drama filled with both romantic moments and suspenseful tension that viewers can look forward to!"
Screenwriter Yutaka Machida, who won the 46th Japan Academy Award for Best Screenplay for the film "Haken Anime!" also shared his thoughts on the project. "When I learned that Yagi and Saito would portray the lead roles, I was genuinely surprised; it’s quite a luxurious casting! One of my primary goals in this remake is to enrich the scene components that make viewers swoon – there will be plenty of heart-fluttering moments!"
The original series, “Suspicious Partner,” captured the hearts of the audience back in 2017, with a storyline that mixes romantic comedy elements with suspenseful twists. Written by Kwon Ki-young, the show featured an unlikely romance that blossomed out of chaos, as the two protagonists navigated their lives amid misunderstandings and hurdles. Reflecting on the remaking process, Kwon stated, “I have a particular fondness for 'Suspicious Partner' among all my works. I hope viewers enjoy spending time with its characters and build lovely memories along the way.”
As anticipation builds, the series will also be accessible for free streaming on TVer and will have exclusive broadcasts on Disney Plus. Fans of the original series and new viewers alike can look forward to rekindling their fondness for this beloved story.
With the promising talent of Yagi and Saito leading the charge, audiences are sure to be in for a treat as "Suspicious Partner" debuts this April. Whether it’s a fateful encounter or merely a stroke of misfortune, the drama’s exploration of love, fate, and the twists of life will surely captivate viewers. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster filled with suspense, laughter, and heartwarming moments!
