In October 2024, 26-year-old actress Narumi Yui appeared in the Japanese drama “I Wanna Punch That Scumbag!” as the younger sister of Nao, the main character who is a young mother raising her child alone.
Although her role was not extensive, her honest and adorable performance caught the attention of many viewers.
Since her debut, Narumi Yui has appeared in numerous Japanese dramas. Let’s take a closer look at the career journey of this rising star in Japanese television.
The Origins of Narumi Yui’s Acting Aspiration
Narumi Yui was born on May 16, 1998, in Hyogo Prefecture. She became interested in acting after watching the Japanese drama Nodame Cantabile (交響情人夢) during her elementary school years. She was deeply inspired by Ueno Juri’s acting, which fueled her ambition to become an actress herself.
In 2017, during her first year of university, Narumi landed a background role in the movie Chihayafuru – Musubi, starring Suzu Hirose. Witnessing Hirose’s outstanding performance, especially as someone the same age, motivated Narumi to pursue her dream of becoming a remarkable actress.
Narumi realized that although she had a dream, she hadn’t taken concrete steps toward achieving it. Determined to change that, she auditioned for a talent agency, enrolled in acting training courses, and eventually dropped out of college to focus on her ambition.
In January 2018, Narumi officially debuted as an actress. The following year, she appeared in the morning drama Natsuzora (なつぞら), where she reunited with her idol, Suzu Hirose, this time in a role with dialogue.
By 2023, after joining the new talent agency FLaMme, Narumi not only released her first photobook Sugarless but also appeared in the major drama Dousuru Ieyasu (どうする家康), portraying “Ina,” the daughter of samurai Honda Tadakatsu, played by Yuuki Yamada.
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Narumi Yui’s Dramas
Narumi Yui’s growing number of opportunities and rising popularity have made her a memorable name for audiences. Here are some of the dramas she has appeared in:
1. Don’t Use Time Travel for Love
This drama tells the story of Tokiwako (played by Riho Yoshioka), an art director at an advertising company who encounters Shou (played by Eita Nagayama), a bizarrely dressed man claiming to be a time patrol officer from the future. Shou’s job is to capture illegal time travelers.
Narumi Yui appeared in the second episode, playing a high school teacher from the 23rd century who escaped to the future with her student, Hiroki Furuichi (played by Ryouka Minamide). Their relationship is soon uncovered, forcing them to return to the 23rd century. Tokiwako and Shou, who handle the case, sympathize with the couple and help them in a clever way.
2. Eye Love You
This drama follows Yuuji Momomiya (played by Fumi Nikaido), who gains the ability to hear people’s inner thoughts after an accident. However, this ability causes her emotional distress, making her afraid to learn people’s true feelings and disbelieve in love.
Narumi Yui played a supporting role as Asuka Nino, a colleague of the main characters. Her character speaks Korean and is known for her sharp observational skills. With her glasses adding a charming touch, her portrayal left a memorable impression.
3. The Land of Tanabata
This drama revolves around Yuji Minamaru (played by Keita Hosoda), a lazy yet kind-hearted university senior with the unique ability to create small holes in objects. His mundane university life takes a turn when his folklore professor, Masami Marugami (played by Hiroshi Mikami), goes missing.
Narumi Yui played “Aki,” a member of a university club researching skill development. Her character is portrayed as brave and resourceful.
4. I Wanna Punch That Scumbag!
The story follows Sato Hommi (played by Nao), who faces heartbreak on her wedding day when her fiancé runs away after being unfaithful. While attempting to confront him, she embarrassingly stumbles. Photographer Kai Katsuya (played by Yuta Tamamori) captures this moment, intertwining their fates.
Narumi Yui played Sayami, Hommi’s younger sister, who moves back into their family home after her failed marriage. Sayami, though vastly different in character from her serious and honest sister, shares their mother’s inclination for falling in love easily.
A Rising Star in the Acting World
From her diverse roles, it’s clear that Narumi Yui has exceptional acting talent and versatility, making her a vibrant and promising young actress. Her natural performances bring a fresh perspective to every character she portrays.
Though she has only taken on leading roles in short films so far, her dedication and perseverance are sure to lead her to shine even brighter in the future!
