Disney+’s K-drama Merry Berry Love stars Ji Chang-wook in a Japan-set romantic comedy with a twist
Lead cast: Ji Chang-wook, Mio Imada Cross-cultural media ties between Japan and South Korea continue to blossom with Merry Berry Love, a rural romance starring Ji Chang-wook (The Worst of Evil) and Mio Imada (Trillion…
Source: South China Morning Post · October 11, 2026 at 7:31 AM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 11 OCTOBER 2026 —
South Korea’s Ji Chang-wook stars in Disney+-backed K-drama co-produced by Japan’s Nippon TV, deepening cross-border media ties
Market Impact
South Korean actor Ji Chang-wook has joined forces with Japanese star Mio Imada in Merry Berry Love, a rural romance co-produced by CJ ENM and Nippon Television, marking another milestone in cultural collaboration between the two nations. The drama, set primarily on Japan’s Charo Island, will premiere on Nippon TV and stream globally via Disney+, despite being written and directed by South Korean creators.
The project underscores growing economic and creative partnerships between South Korea and Japan, following recent joint ventures in film, music, and streaming. Merry Berry Love follows Ji Chang-wook as a South Korean man navigating life in rural Japan alongside Imada’s character, Karin, blending cross-cultural romance with lighthearted humor. Production involves CJ ENM, South Korea’s largest entertainment conglomerate, and Nippon Television, one of Japan’s leading broadcasters.
The collaboration reflects broader industry trends, with both countries seeking to expand their global reach through co-productions. Disney+’s involvement further amplifies the drama’s international appeal, leveraging its vast subscriber base across Asia and beyond. The show’s setting in Japan, despite South Korean creative leadership, highlights the strategic positioning of both markets in Asia’s entertainment landscape.
With Merry Berry Love set to air on Nippon TV and stream globally, the project reinforces the economic and cultural synergy between South Korea and Japan, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at rural Japanese life through a K-drama lens. The drama’s release date has not been confirmed, but its production signals continued momentum in cross-border media collaborations.