The wait is over! The long-anticipated live-action adaptation of the popular coming-of-age BL novel is here — I Happened to Join a Group of Cool Guys on a School Trip (修学旅行で仲良くないグループに入りました) is ready to charm fans with school trip drama, unexpected romance, and the perfect mix of comedy and heart.
This youth BL brings together a star-studded cast: Kodai Fujimoto, Hideyoshi Kan, Masaya Sakuragi, Ayutaka Fukuda, and Kairi Shimizu. Together, they deliver a school-age love story between an ordinary boy and the most popular student in school — complete with jealousy, care, and plenty of heart-pounding moments.
High school sophomore Asahi Hioki (Kodai Fujimoto) has a gentle and ordinary personality. However, when class groupings for the school trip are announced, he gets separated from his close friends. Alone and unsure, he’s persuaded to join a group with four of the most handsome, popular boys at school — famously known as the “Four Heavenly Kings.”
At first, Hioki feels awkward, especially around Tsukasa Watarai (Hideyoshi Kan), the most popular of them all. But Watarai surprises him by constantly looking out for him. Step by step, their bond deepens, and Hioki begins to notice Watarai’s intense devotion — the kind that feels more than friendly. With every moment, Hioki finds himself wondering: Do friends really do this?
Hioki is the pure-hearted, unassuming boy who has never been in love. He’s calm, kind, and a little shy, but his life changes on this trip. Fujimoto shines in his first drama lead role, bringing warmth and innocence to Hioki.
Kodai Fujimoto’s comment:
“What? I’m the lead?!” I keep thinking about it and it still doesn’t feel real. I’m truly grateful for this precious opportunity and want to make it an amazing production. Hioki hasn’t made friends in his class yet, but he’s pure and adorable. I believe love is powerful enough to change you, and I hope to convey that through this story.
Watarai is one of the “Four Heavenly Kings,” admired for his charm but carrying a jealous streak. He cares deeply for Hioki, helping him at every turn, but his feelings run far deeper than they appear.
Hideyoshi Kan’s comment:
I enjoy reading BL works, so I was thrilled to receive this offer. The original story kept me hooked until the end. Watarai has a cool side, but he’s also devoted and even obsessive in love. His contrast — confident yet lonely — makes him incredibly appealing. I hope to deliver a version of him that makes fans even more excited than the original.
Naoya exudes an untouchable aura, making him a favorite among the girls at school. Beneath his cool exterior, he has a playful side and enjoys teasing others, especially Hioki.
Masaya Sakuragi’s comment:
I’m happy to join this hotly discussed BL during such a booming era for the genre. Morisaki is both cool and playful, which I find fascinating. I want to show how his surly nature hides moments of kindness toward Hioki. Each character has a strong personality, and I’ll work to make Morisaki’s coolness stand out.
Haruki is the mood maker of the group, with a sweet personality and a smile that can melt anyone’s heart. However, he has a hidden darker side that adds depth to his character.
Ayutaka Fukuda’s comment:
This is my first TV drama role, so I was thrilled to be cast! Haruki is cute and friendly but has surprising layers to his personality. I want to bring that contrast to life while capturing the youthful excitement of this story.
Hotta is honest, cheerful, and incredibly popular with both boys and girls. A former middle school classmate of Hioki, he’s the one who invites him into the group, setting everything into motion.
Kairi Shimizu’s comment:
This is my first terrestrial TV drama role, and I was overjoyed to join such an amazing cast. Hotta is a natural leader who brings people together. Many scenes begin because of his initiative, and I want to portray that energy on screen. I believe this drama will gain many fans, and I’m determined to make every episode worth watching.
There are several reasons this drama is already trending among BL fans:
- The original work is beloved, and its blend of comedy, school romance, and emotional beats is perfect for adaptation.
- The cast is fresh yet experienced, with each actor bringing unique energy to their roles.
- The “Four Heavenly Kings” setup promises fun banter, romantic tension, and heart-melting moments.
I Happened to Join a Group of Cool Guys on a School Trip is set to premier on October 18, 2025 on ABC TV, this is one school trip BL you won’t want to miss. Expect jealousy, kindness, awkward confessions, and a whole lot of “Is this really just friendship?” moments.
We will keep you updated every step of the way — so get ready to pack your bags for this unforgettable trip.
SOURCE: https://www.asahi.co.jp/schooltrip/