This Japanese boys' love anime and drama series features a narcissistic sales department ace, Kaji, who initially dismisses his seemingly plain colleague Fukami, only to discover an "irresistibly cute" side that leads to an unexpected romance. What is this series called?

The series you're thinking of is called Unexpectedly Naughty Fukami. This popular Japanese boys' love (BL) narrative centers on Akihiro Kaji, a sales department ace who, despite his outwardly perfect demeanor, harbors a secret narcissistic streak, judging everyone around him by a personal "scoring system". His world takes an unexpected turn when he's paired on a business trip with his seemingly unremarkable colleague, Yu Fukami, whom he initially deems a "total zero". However, a chance encounter reveals Fukami's hidden, irresistibly charming, and erotic side, completely shattering Kaji's preconceived notions and sparking an intense, unforeseen romance.

Originally a manga by Ayaka Matsumoto, known in Japan as "Yatara Yarashii Fukami-kun" (やたらやらしい深見くん), the series has garnered significant attention within the boys (Review)' love genre. Its compelling story and engaging characters led to an anime adaptation that premiered in March 2025, with both a standard television broadcast and a premium, uncensored streaming version. Adding to its popularity, a live-action drama adaptation is also set to broadcast in April 2026, further expanding the reach of this captivating workplace romance.

The appeal of Unexpectedly Naughty Fukami lies in the dynamic between its two leads. Kaji, a confident and popular individual, secretly struggles with loneliness beneath his narcissistic exterior. Fukami, on the other hand, is a seemingly sloppy and quiet man from the IT department who, after losing his parents at a young age, finds it difficult to rely on others. The series expertly explores how Kaji's superficial judgments are challenged by Fukami's unexpected depth and allure, leading to a heartwarming and often humorous journey as they navigate a relationship that blurs the lines between lust and genuine affection.