South Korean actor and singer Lee Jun Young is making his debut in the Japanese film industry with a role in Tokyo Taxi, the 91st film by renowned Japanese director Yoji Yamada, according to a statement from his agency on Monday.

"Lee Jun Young will appear in legendary Japanese director Yoji Yamada's 91st film, Tokyo Taxi," said the announcement by Billions. "This marks his debut in Japanese cinema."

Tokyo Taxi, based on the French film Taxi, is set in modern-day Tokyo and explores themes of regret, reconciliation, and miraculous moments at the end of life.

The film features a stellar lineup of Japanese actors, including Takuya Kimura, Chieko Baisho, Yu Aoi, and Takaya Sakoda.

Lee's casting had been kept secret until recently, with filming already completed prior to the public announcement. He plays the role of Kim Young Ki.

Lee, who is known for his emotionally rich performances in Korean dramas and variety shows, will portray the youthful first love of the main character, Sumire, played by veteran actress Chieko Baisho.

He shares key scenes with actress Yu Aoi in what his team described as "deep emotional moments."

"Thanks to Director Yamada's emotion-centered direction, I was able to immerse myself naturally in the character," Lee said.

"Although the shoot was short, it was an incredibly intense experience. It was a great honor to work with such excellent actors in my first Japanese film.

I hope audiences will feel the warmth of humanity through this movie."

The casting announcement has generated buzz among fans in both Korea and Japan, with many praising Lee's continued expansion as an actor.

A former member of the K-pop group U-KISS and a breakout performer on Korean television, Lee Jun Young has steadily built a diverse acting portfolio.

Tokyo Taxi is slated for a nationwide release in Japan on November 21.