Hello, everyone! I hope you’re all doing well. Today, I’m here to discuss the drama Love Is For The Dogs, which has been winning hearts with its distinctive fusion of Japanese and Korean narrative elements. This touching romantic drama features three gifted actors from various backgrounds in a tale that demonstrates love’s ability to transcend boundaries.
Love Is For The Dogs first aired in 2025, consisting of a 10-episode run, each around 50 minutes long. The series is accessible for viewing on TBS in Japan, TVING in Korea, and worldwide on Max (HBO Max). Inspired by the webtoon “Doghan Romance” by Bo-Hyun and illustrated by Moon Suni, this Japan-Korea co-production is the first collaboration between TBS and Studio Dragon, marking it as a pioneering project.
The series traces the lives of three people who become connected through a mysterious pet dog, delving into themes of recovery, companionship, and unforeseen love. What sets this drama apart is its cross-cultural method, blending the emotional richness of Japanese storytelling with the passionate intensity of Korean dramas.
Three Distinct Characters Intertwined
The storyline focuses on three diverse individuals: Woo Seo Ha (Na In Woo), a Korean third-generation chaebol, Kai Shirosaki (Ryo Narita), a Japanese veterinarian, and Aiko Hanamura (Kaya Kiyohara), a divorce lawyer. Their lives become intertwined through a pet dog harboring a mysterious secret. As they navigate through misunderstandings and conflicts, they gradually form friendships and begin to mend their past emotional scars.
The drama adeptly intertwines the professional and personal lives of these characters, with each episode unveiling more about their personal struggles and the mysterious connection that links them. The pet dog acts as more than just a plot element; it becomes a catalyst for personal development and unforeseen relationships.
Aiko Hanamura: The Meticulous Divorce Attorney
Aiko Hanamura (Kaya Kiyohara) is a divorce attorney known for her precision, yet she is also a compassionate person who empathizes with her clients facing marital issues. From her personal life, having grown up with parents who didn’t get along, she is skeptical of love. She enjoys her single life with her beloved pet dog, Sakura.
Kaya Kiyohara skillfully adds depth to Aiko, portraying a woman who has built emotional barriers due to her childhood. Her journey from being doubtful about love to gradually opening up forms the emotional essence of the series. The actress strikes a perfect balance between Aiko’s professional expertise and personal vulnerabilities.
Kai Shirosaki: The Empathetic Animal Doctor
Ryo Narita takes on the role of Kai Shirosaki, a committed veterinarian running an animal clinic. His character serves as the emotional core of the trio, with his genuine concern for animals reflecting in his interactions with people. Narita’s warm and genuine portrayal makes Kai immediately endearing, and his character’s sincere intentions stand in contrast to the more guarded personalities surrounding him.
The veterinarian’s role allows the series to delve into themes of recovery and care, both for animals and humans. Kai’s interactions with both Aiko and Seo Ha unveil different aspects of his character, from professional commitment to personal devotion.
Woo Seo Ha: The Complex Chaebol
Na In Woo plays Woo Seo Ha, a Korean third-generation chaebol who adds depth to what could have been a typical wealthy heir role. His presence in Japan and connection to the enigmatic pet dog adds intrigue to the plot, while his evolving relationships with Aiko and Kai offer opportunities for character growth.
Na In Woo’s portrayal brings the flair of Korean dramas that international audiences adore, while his character’s journey explores themes of duty, family expectations, and seeking real connections beyond wealth and status.
Achieving Success on Max
Love Is For The Dogs, a prime-time drama series co-produced by Japan and Korea, is set to be broadcast on TBS, TVING, and Max. The series has attracted considerable attention for being the inaugural collaboration between TBS and Studio Dragon, heralding a new era of cross-cultural drama production. Its international release on Max has enabled global audiences to enjoy this distinctive blend of Japanese and Korean storytelling techniques. The drama’s emphasis on recovery, friendship, and the unique bond between humans and animals has struck a chord with audiences from various cultures, proving that some narratives are universally resonant.
If you’re a fan of heartwarming romantic tales, cross-cultural dramas, and stories highlighting the healing power of pets, Love Is For The Dogs is an ideal series to indulge in on Max. The combination of stellar performances, a unique premise, and emotional profundity makes it a standout in both Japanese and Korean drama scenes.
Love Is For The Dogs successfully merges Japanese and Korean storytelling to craft a touching narrative about love, recovery, and the unique bonds that unite us all.
Series Details:
- Number of Episodes: 10
- Platform: Max (HBO Max), TBS, TVING
- Rating: TBD (newly released)
- Genre: Romance, Drama
- Main Characters: Kaya Kiyohara (Aiko Hanamura), Ryo Narita (Kai Shirosaki), Na In Woo (Woo Seo Ha)
- Antagonist: Past traumas and emotional barriers (character-driven conflicts)