New Live-Action Series ‘Soul Mate’ Stars Hayato Isomura and Ok Taec-yeon

Get ready to embark on a poignant journey of love and destiny with the upcoming Netflix series “Soul Mate.” This live-action drama isn’t your typical boy-meets-girl story. Instead, it ventures beyond borders and cultural divides to explore the profound connection between two souls. Led by the captivating performances of Hayato Isomura and Ok Taec-yeon,”Soul Mate” promises a heartwarming exploration of love’s complexities, from the initial spark of connection to the enduring strength that sees us through life’s inevitable challenges.

A Tapestry Woven Across Vibrant Cities

Under the helm of up-and-coming creator Shunki Hashizume, who also takes the director’s chair, “Soul Mate” promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. The series unfolds against the backdrop of three distinct and vibrant cities: Berlin, Seoul, and Tokyo. Each location offers a unique cultural flavor, enriching the narrative and providing a dynamic setting for the central love story to unfold.

A Chance Meeting Sets the Stage for an Unforgettable Bond

The story centers on Ryu Narutaki (Isomura), a young Japanese man who makes a life-altering decision. Leaving everything he knows behind in Japan, Ryu embarks on a journey of self-discovery in a foreign land. There, fate intervenes when he crosses paths with Johan Hwang (Taec-yeon), a skilled boxer who steps in to help Ryu during a difficult situation. This chance encounter ignites a spark that transcends a simple act of kindness, setting the stage for a profound connection that will resonate throughout the following decade.

From Casual Conversation to Captivating Concept

The seed for “Soul Mate” was sown during a seemingly ordinary conversation between Hashizume and executive producer Dai Ota. However, as they delved deeper into the concept, the idea of a story centered on the undeniable bond between soulmates – those with whom we share an inexplicable and enduring connection – began to take shape. The title itself reflects this central theme, hinting at the extraordinary journey that awaits viewers.

“This is a story about destiny fulfilled,” explains Ota. “We see two individuals from entirely different backgrounds brought together by serendipity in a foreign land. Their lives become intertwined, and the narrative explores the joys and sorrows they experience on this shared path. The exceptional performances by Isomura and Taec-yeon, along with the emotional depth of the script, will undoubtedly resonate with viewers on a global scale.”

Embracing the Challenge: A Cast Dedicated to the Craft

Isomura, a rising star with notable roles in “Extremely Inappropriate!” and “(Ab)normal Desire,” is thrilled to bring the character of Ryu to life. “The script resonated deeply with me,” he shares. “It’s a beautiful portrayal of love that blossoms even amidst hardship. Director Hashizume’s vision for the 10-year story arc is truly captivating, and working alongside the talented Ok Taec-yeon has been an incredibly inspiring experience.”

Taec-yeon, a member of the popular Korean boy band 2PM and a seasoned actor with credits like “Vincenzo” and “La Grande Maison Paris,” saw “Soul Mate” as an exciting opportunity to showcase his versatility as an actor. “The character of Johan Hwang is complex and intriguing,” he says. “He’s haunted by inner struggles and pain. To fully embody Johan, I underwent a rigorous boxing training regimen and even lost weight to achieve the desired physicality. I’m committed to delivering a portrayal that captures the depth of this character.”

A Celebration of Shared Connections

Hashizume reflects on the collaborative spirit that has permeated the production process. “Creating this story has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding,” he says. “Working with such a talented cast and crew has been a true privilege. In a way, everyone involved in this project feels like a soulmate – we’re all connected by a shared passion for bringing this story to life.”

With its international setting, relatable themes of love and destiny, and a promising cast dedicated to their craft, “Soul Mate” is poised to become a must-watch for fans of heartwarming dramas and international content. Keep an eye out for its release on Netflix!