Netflix’s First Dual-Invited Japanese Series Shines in Busan
When the red carpet rolled out for the 30th Busan International Film Festival—Asia’s biggest film celebration—three stars from Netflix Japan’s highly anticipated drama Ikusagami stepped into the spotlight. Leading man Junichi Okada, breakout actress Yumia Fujisaki, and acclaimed director Michihito Fujii attended the opening ceremony, creating buzz both inside and outside Korea’s entertainment world.
What Is ‘Ikusagami’ and Why the Hype?
Ikusagami is not your average Netflix series. It marks the first time Netflix Japan has had two productions invited simultaneously to the prestigious On Screen section of BIFF—a category created in 2021 to spotlight streaming dramas. Think of it as the Oscars finally opening a category for Netflix Originals.
It’s also the world premiere of the show, ahead of its global release on November 13. That explains the cameras, the fan frenzy, and the packed 5,000-seat venue that felt more like a K-pop concert than a film screening.
Junichi Okada, Triple Threat on the Red Carpet
Okada isn’t just the lead actor—he’s also the show’s producer and action planner. That’s right, he’s pulling a Keanu Reeves-meets-Shonda Rhimes move here. “This is a space filled with love for movies and storytelling,” he told the press, beaming. “I’m excited to see how this story will reach global audiences from here.”
For Yumia Fujisaki, a newcomer cast in a pivotal role alongside Okada’s character, this was her first international film festival appearance—a major debut in front of an international audience.
The New Face of Streaming’s Global Stage
Held annually since 1996, the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is a dream destination for film and drama lovers. Its On Screen section aims to bridge the gap between traditional film and the rising power of streaming platforms. Basically, it’s where the future of entertainment gets its red carpet moment.
On September 18, just a day after the opening gala, the trio will return for an official screening of Ikusagami, followed by a Q&A session. Korean fans and press are already buzzing, wondering: will this Japanese blockbuster be the next Asia-based streaming hit?
What’s Next for ‘Ikusagami’?
With its world premiere already turning heads, Ikusagami has set the stage for international hype. As global viewers count down to its Netflix release, one thing’s clear—the battle-tested drama genre just got a stylish new contender.
Will this series mark a turning point for Netflix Japan in the global TV shuffle? We’ll find out in November. But for now, Busan has spoken: Ikusagami is ready for its close-up.
