The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific unveiled a dynamic roster of upcoming Korean and Japanese Originals for Disney+, underscoring the platform’s accelerating creative momentum in the region.
Hosted for the first time at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, the Disney+ Originals Preview brought together stars and creators from the U.S., Korea, and Japan for a dazzling showcase of exclusive footage, major announcements, and surprise reveals from some of the region’s most anticipated titles.
Korea Steps Into the Spotlight
Korean content took center stage with a string of headline-worthy updates. The highly anticipated crime thriller Made in Korea, led by Hyun Bin and Jung Woosung, is officially set to premiere on December 24, with a second series already in the works for a 2026 release.
Disney+ also spotlighted a strong roster of Korean originals:
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The Manipulated, the adrenaline-fueled action drama starring Ji Changwook and Doh Kyungsoo, now streaming.
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Battle of Fates, a gripping reality showdown where fortune tellers and oracles fight for supremacy.
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Gold Land, an intense crime-action saga featuring Park Boyoung and Kim Sungcheol.
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A Shop for Killers Season 2, bringing back Lee Dongwook and Kim Hyejun, and welcoming Masaki Okada and Hyunri to the cast.
Fans of romance got their own treat with the announcement of Perfect Crown, a new Korean rom-com headlined by IU and rising star Byeon Wooseok, slated for 2026. Meanwhile, Are You Sure?! Season 2 — starring BTS’ Jimin and Jungkook — was previewed ahead of its December 3 launch.
Luke Kang, President of The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific, underscored the region’s creative significance:
“Today’s preview reflects our deepening partnerships with the region’s next generation of creative talent — as we uncover new worlds and new stories for Disney+ audiences.”
Expanding the Universe of Adaptations
The showcase also highlighted the growing trend of adapting beloved Korean fantasy romance webtoons into premium live-action productions. Creative teams shared insights on upcoming series such as:
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The Remarried Empress, starring Shin Mina, Ju Jihoon, Lee Jongsuk, and Lee Seyoung
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Portraits of Delusion (working title), featuring Suzy Bae and Kim Seonho
Carol Choi, Executive Vice President of Original Content Strategy, emphasized Disney’s mission:
“Originality drives us to continually push the boundaries of storytelling… We are proud to bring great stories that live on Disney+ — timeless stories that will resonate across generations and geographies.”
Since launching APAC originals in 2021, Disney+ has rolled out more than 155 regional titles, several of which have achieved both critical and commercial success.
Japan Spotlight: Bold Stories, Legendary Collaborators
One of the biggest reveals of the day was Disney’s groundbreaking partnership with iconic game creator Hideo Kojima, who is working with the platform on a new Japanese anime series titled Death Stranding Isolations (working title). Inspired by the hit post-apocalyptic action-adventure game series, the anime is set in the same universe but introduces an entirely new narrative. Directed by Takayuki Sano and produced by E&H Production, the project marks a major milestone in the convergence of high-end gaming and premium animation.
Disney also offered first looks at several Japanese projects—from fan-favorite anime to star-driven dramas and fresh unscripted experiments—further solidifying the streamer’s investment in diverse storytelling.
Highlights from the Japanese Slate
Death Stranding Isolations (working title)
Set somewhere in North America, the series follows several isolated individuals navigating the remnants of humanity. As Sam Bridges travels the continent to reconnect America, others pursue their own paths—an aging man chasing misguided salvation, a female warrior intent on fueling endless conflict, a resentful boy, and a girl who has embraced loneliness. As their destinies collide on the brink of extinction, a new chapter in the Death Stranding saga begins—leading to another explosion that shakes their world.
Merry Berry Love (working title)
A charming Japan–Korea collaboration by CJ ENM, the powerhouse behind Crash Landing on You, The Queen of Tears, and Parasite. This romantic comedy pairs a struggling Korean designer, Yubin, with a Japanese farmer, Karin, as they embark on a quirky co-farming adventure on a mysterious Japanese island. Sparks, conflicts, and culture clashes abound.
Cat’s Eye Part 2
The iconic trio Hitomi, Rui, and Ai return as café owners by day and the legendary thief team “Cat’s Eye” by night. Their mission? Recover their father’s stolen art collection from a dangerous syndicate—all while Hitomi’s detective boyfriend hunts the very thieves she’s part of.
Daigo Project (working title)
Disney+ introduces its first-ever Japanese Original variety show, crafted by Daigo of the comedy duo Chidori. Marking his global production debut, Daigo delivers a bold, unpredictable concept aimed at bringing Japanese comedy to a worldwide audience.
Tokyo Revengers: War of the Three Titans Arc
Fresh off the emotional aftermath of the Tokyo Manji Gang and Tenjiku conflict, this new arc thrusts Takemichi into a drastically altered future. With Hinata alive but Takemichi mysteriously missing, and with three rising factions battling for dominance, the saga enters the explosive “Three Titans Era.”
Medalist Season 2
After failed figure skater Tsukasa discovers young Inori—whose parents urge her to quit skating—he becomes her mentor. Together, the unlikely pair chase their dream of becoming world-class medalists in this emotional and uplifting sports anime.
Travis Japan Summer Vacation!! in the USA
The popular seven-member global group heads out on a 10-day American summer road trip. Led by certified travel planner Noel Kawashima, the group journeys through Arches National Park, Monument Valley, Sedona, and more—capturing breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and hilarious group dynamics along the way.
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