A Netflix Cross-Cultural Romance With a Twist
Actress Han Hyo Joo got real about her latest role in the Korea-Japan collaborative film A Secret Love Affair in Tokyo during the outdoor stage greeting at the 30th Busan International Film Festival on October 20. Standing alongside director Sho Tsukikawa and Japanese heartthrob Shun Oguri, Han shared why she signed on for the emotional Netflix project.
Why Han Said Yes to This Role
In the film, Han plays Hana, a brilliant chocolatier who struggles with scopophobia—a deep fear of eye contact. It’s a love story centered around two socially anxious individuals who slowly connect, with chocolate serving as their sweet bridge. Yes, it’s as romantic (and tear-jerking) as it sounds.
“When I first read the script, the story was so unique and immersive. I breezed through all four episodes without stopping,” Han confessed. “Choosing this project felt like a huge challenge because it’s a joint production between Korea and Japan.”
From Page to Production—And Chocolate
Directed by Sho Tsukikawa, famous for I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (yes, that’s a real film title in Japan), A Secret Love Affair in Tokyo delicately explores how two introverted souls find connection—and courage—through chocolate and vulnerability.
Han added, “I thought it would be a fun shoot, a meaningful experience. It’s rare to meet a team this special, so I wanted to take on the challenge.”
East Meets East, Streaming to the World
The film marks a growing trend in content: transnational co-productions tapping into the global Hallyu wave and Japan’s emotive storytelling. With a star-powered cast and a universal theme—fear, connection, and healing—it’s poised to resonate well beyond Asia.
So What’s Next?
Han Hyo Joo’s film choices keep getting bolder. From noir thrillers to international love stories, she’s clearly unafraid to break walls—linguistic or emotional.
Will Hana and her shy, chocolate-loving co-lead melt hearts across Netflix? Honestly, signs point to yes. 🍫
