Fresh off winning the Asia Star Award at the 9th Asia Artist Awards in Bangkok this past December, Japanese actor Kento Sakaguchi looked back on a milestone year in a written interview with Star News.
Reflecting on his Korean drama debut What Comes After Love, Sakaguchi shared what it was like working with co-star Lee Se Young. “Romance dramas require a real understanding of your partner’s emotions,” he said. “The time we spent discussing the project allowed us to share a wide range of feelings. It was genuinely special.”
Given the strong audience reaction to their on-screen chemistry, it’s no surprise fans are hoping for a reunion—and Sakaguchi is just as open to the idea. Asked what kind of project he’d like to do with Lee Se Young next, he replied with a smile, “Since ‘What Comes After Love’ was so emotionally charged, I’d like to try something a bit tougher next time. Maybe a role where I protect her—or she protects me.”
The actor also touched on his unexpected viral fame after appearing on Lee Young Ji’s hit YouTube variety show “Nothing Much Prepared.” The episode has now surpassed 9.3 million views six months after its release.
“I honestly didn’t expect that at all. I was completely stunned,” Sakaguchi admitted.
The experience led to a real-life friendship as well. “We grew closer thanks to the show,” he revealed. “I ended up going out to eat with Lee Young Ji and some of the crew afterward. I had a great time.”
Sakaguchi has also gained traction with Korean audiences through his appearances in Japanese remakes of hit Korean dramas like I’m Sorry, I Love You and Signal.
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