Netflix has revealed Viral Hit, an upcoming Japanese live-action adaptation of the popular South Korean webtoon, as part of its 2026 Japanese content slate. The series, starring Ouji Suzuka in the lead role, promises to deliver a compelling story of resilience and the double-edged nature of online fame. Directed by Hideki Takeuchi and written by Yuichi Tokunaga—the creative team behind hits like Fly Me to the Saitama and the live-action Cells at Work!—the drama is produced by Rakueisha and positioned as a Netflix Original.
This adaptation brings the webtoon's themes of bullying, self-improvement, and social media influence to life, following in the footsteps of successful Netflix Japanese series that blend action with emotional depth. Fans of Weak Hero Class 1 will particularly enjoy Viral Hit, as both series explore intense high school confrontations, underdog protagonists fighting back against overwhelming odds, and the raw physical and emotional toll of standing up to bullies in a modern setting. With a teaser already available, anticipation is building for its global release.
Viral Hit Netflix Release Date
Netflix has confirmed the worldwide premiere of Viral Hit for May 28, 2026. The series will be available to stream on the platform starting that date, making it accessible to subscribers everywhere simultaneously. While details on episode count and format are still forthcoming, the release aligns with Netflix's push for fresh international originals in the spring season.
Viral Hit Trailer
Netflix has released an official teaser for Viral Hit, providing an early look at the series' intense tone and key elements. The 53-second teaser features quick cuts of bullying scenes, raw fight sequences, and glimpses of Kota setting up his streaming channel. It builds tension with a driving soundtrack and ends on a moment of empowerment, effectively hooking viewers with the promise of action and personal transformation.
Viral Hit Plot
Viral Hit is adapted from the South Korean webtoon of the same name (also known as How to Fight), created by writer Taejun Pak and illustrator Kim Junghyun. The webtoon, serialized on the WEBTOON platform since 2019, has amassed millions of views worldwide for its honest portrayal of high school struggles, personal growth through fighting skills, and the consequences of viral internet fame. It previously inspired a 2024 anime adaptation and continues to resonate with readers through its mix of action, humor, and social commentary.
Netflix's official synopsis captures the essence of the story:
Kota Shimura is a bullied high school student struggling under the weight of his mother’s medical bills and constant abuse from school bullies. His life couldn’t be more bleak… Until one day, an opportunity suddenly falls his way. When a fight with a classmate is accidentally streamed online and goes viral, Kota realizes that fighting can be a profitable venture. He starts a streaming channel and begins to claw his way out from the pits of despair.
Viral Hit Cast Members
Ouji Suzuka leads the series as Kota Shimura, the bullied protagonist who discovers a path to empowerment through viral fighting streams. Known for his roles in Netflix titles like From Me to You: Kimi ni Todoke, The Days, and Roppongi Class, Suzuka brings emotional depth and physical commitment to the character. His casting highlights a rising star capable of portraying vulnerability turning into strength.
Ai Mikami plays Aki Yashio, Kota’s junior who plays a pivotal role in the unfolding story. Mikami has appeared in Netflix projects such as Chastity High School and Yu Yu Hakusho, showcasing her range in both dramatic and action-oriented roles. Her performance is expected to add emotional layers and support to the central narrative.
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Araki Sugou portrays Toru Kaneko, described as an idiosyncratic figure in Kota's journey. Sugou has built experience in youth dramas and sports stories, including Omusubi, Legendary Boss Sho, Percent, and Worst to First: A Teen Baseball Miracle. His role is poised to bring complexity and energy to the interactions surrounding the protagonist's rise.
Mieko Harada (Romantic Anonymous), Nana Asakawa (The Killer Inside), and Takuro Osada (Drop), round out the remainder of the cast, adding further depth to the ensemble.
This article will be updated with more details about Viral Hit as we get closer to its release date.
Source: Netflix
