Actress Matsu Takako is set to star in the New Year’s special drama “Slow Train,” which will be broadcast on the TBS network on January 2, 2025, at 9:00 PM. She will be joined by Tabe Mikako, Matsuzaka Tori, Hoshino Gen, and Joo Jong-Hyuk. The script is penned by Nogi Akiko, known for her work on serial dramas such as “Unnatural” and “MIU404.”

Matsu Takako plays the role of Shibuya Yoko, a freelance editor. Yoko, as the head of the Shibuya family, lives in her family home in Kamakura with her parents and grandmother. Tabe portrays Yoko’s sister, Miyako, who, even after turning 30, continues to drift from job to job and place to place. The Shibuya family is thrown into turmoil when she suddenly declares her intention to go to Korea.

Matsuzaka plays Ushio, a track maintenance worker on the Enoshima Electric Railway, while Hoshino takes on the role of Momoki Ken, a popular author who significantly influences the lives of the three siblings. Joo, garnering attention for roles in “Extraordinary Attorney Woo” and “Frankly Speaking”, makes his Japanese drama debut.

The story kicks off when Miyako abruptly announces to Yoko and Ushio her plans to move to Korea, bringing each sibling to a crossroads in their life journey. From sharing happiness together, Yoko, Miyako, and Ushio each confront their own versions of happiness. Through the lens of family dynamics, the drama unfolds as a thrilling and heartwarming home drama that ultimately brings smiles to viewers’ faces. The direction is helmed by Doi Nobuhiro, known for his work on films like “We Made a Beautiful Bouquet.”

Comments from the cast and staff are as follows:

Matsu Takako:
“It was a warm drama created alongside the best siblings, Tabe and Matsuzaka, under the direction of Doi, whom I deeply trust. The pressure I felt when Nogi told me during script reading that it was written specifically for me turned into a magical feeling.”

“In scenes with Hoshino Gen, we had incredibly fun exchanges. Joo Jong-Hyuk plays a meaningful role in this drama and approached his first Japanese role with positivity and brightness.”

“I hope everyone enjoys this story created by people who love TV dramas. I’m particularly fond of the title ‘Slow Train.'”

Tabe Mikako:
“Receiving this opportunity to work with such a wonderful cast and staff felt like a reward! The excitement and nervousness on set made every day enjoyable, leaving me lamenting its end.”

“Playing the middle sibling for the first time was a unique experience. Miyako’s character—seemingly aimless yet possessing an unwavering resolve—really resonated with me. The delicate balance of sibling relationships is something I hope viewers will enjoy watching on New Year’s night.”

Matsuzaka Tori:
“As someone who grew up sandwiched between an older sister and a younger sister, I found a strangely comfortable atmosphere on the set of ‘Slow Train.’ Working as a brother alongside Matsutaka and Tabe brought back fond memories. It was a joy to act with Hoshino again after our previous collaboration in a historical drama and a great treasure to exchange performances across borders with Joo Jong-Hyuk.”

Doi Nobuhiro is a director with whom I’ve shared many projects. In our first project together, ‘Kirin no Tsubasa,’ I was a novice actor facing off against Abe Hiroshi. The words ‘Don’t think, feel,’ which Doi emailed me the day before shooting, still guide me today. Nogi’s scripts are easy to read and resonate deeply with everyday life.”

“This gentle and warm work depicts family love, sibling love, romance, and various relationships. I hope ‘Slow Train’ brings warmth to everyone at the start of 2025.”

Hoshino Gen:
“Writing and erasing my comments repeatedly reflects my struggle to convey the wonderfulness of this story and the overflowing emotions I felt upon first reading the script without cheapening the experience. I’m grateful to have been part of this project, even for a short time, and look forward to its broadcast.”

Joo Jong-Hyuk:
“Hello, I’m Joo Jong-Hyuk playing Yun-su. Preparing for ‘Slow Train’ involved practicing Japanese for two or three months prior to filming. It was a new challenge filled with excitement and anxiety. Thanks to the kindness of the director, staff, and fellow actors, I was able to film comfortably and joyfully. I’m thankful and look forward to meeting everyone.”

“At the set, having an interpreter made communication much smoother, and I often checked with my co-stars to ensure my Japanese was correct after each cut. I hope my expressions were conveyed well. Although my Japanese is still improving, I would be delighted if you could watch ‘Slow Train’ with kindness and love.”

Nogi Akiko:
“In my career as a scriptwriter, Director Doi Nobuhiro has provided invaluable advice and learning opportunities. The project started when he contacted me at the end of 2022 with the desire to create a special drama before retiring. Writing in Busan turned out to be an exceptionally enjoyable process. The broadcast is set for New Year’s Day, transitioning from the slight loneliness at year’s end to a new beginning. Whether with family or alone, please sit back and enjoy.”

Doi Nobuhiro:
“We’ve created a ‘home drama’ that captures the lives of people living in the present with a gentle perspective. Reflecting on the time spent facing beloved actors like Matsutaka with Nogi’s script makes me smile with happiness every time I think about it. Where will the lives of the Shibuya siblings living in Kamakura lead? Please look forward to ‘Slow Train’ in the New Year of 2025.”

Komaki Sakura Producer:
“A magical home drama has been created by a fantastic cast and staff who truly love TV dramas and transcend borders. I believe it will bring joy during the New Year. Please stay tuned!”