Top Japanese Actress Caught in Affair Rumors—Now a Korean Actor Is Dragged Into the Drama

The Japanese entertainment world is in turmoil once again as a major scandal unfolds—this time involving top actress Nagano Mei (25), who’s been accused of having an affair with a married actor and possibly dating Korean actor Kim Moo-joon (26) at the same time. As the controversy spreads, Korean fans are now paying close attention.

On April 23, Japanese tabloid Shukan Bunshun reported that Nagano is allegedly involved in an inappropriate relationship with married actor Tanaka Kei (40), who is 15 years her senior. According to the report, the two met while filming the 2021 movie And, the Baton Was Passed, and their relationship reportedly turned romantic last year.

The situation intensified after the outlet published photos taken on April 19, showing Nagano and Tanaka getting into a car together near her home. Tanaka, who married a former actress in 2011 and has two children, has previously faced allegations of inappropriate behavior with models—even while his wife was pregnant—adding fuel to the current scandal.

But what’s caught even more attention in Korea is the claim that Nagano was also involved with rising Korean actor Kim Moo-joon at the same time. Shukan Bunshun alleged that Nagano invited Kim to her home several times while continuing her involvement with Tanaka. Kim is currently starring alongside Nagano in the Japanese drama Caster.

Kim Moo-joon’s agency, 9Ato Entertainment, swiftly denied the allegations.

“They are not in a romantic relationship. They’re just close colleagues,” the agency stated on April 23.

Nagano's side also responded through Japanese media, saying, “Tanaka Kei is just a senior colleague in the industry. We are not dating. The same goes for Kim Moo-joon.”

Kim Moo-joon debuted in 2020 through the web drama Neuron, and has since gained recognition through appearances in Nevertheless, Love All Play, The Matchmakers, and Sorry, Today Too. He recently began expanding his career in Japan, starring in Black Pean 2 and currently appearing in Caster, where he shares the screen with Nagano. Back home, he's set to appear in SBS’s new drama Kiss for No Reason! this September.

Nagano Mei, known for her roles in And, the Baton Was Passed, Daytime Shooting Star, and My Love Story!!, is considered one of Japan’s top young actresses.

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