Asian dramas like
Apoyan

Shibano Takeo is known for his expertise in corporate restructuring. After the unexpected passing of his mentor, the renowned inventor Fujimura Tokio, Shibano transitions from a large electronics company to a struggling metal molding factory named Majitech. Facing the threat of bankruptcy, he is tasked with revitalizing the business. Despite feeling inadequate compared to Fujimura's daughter Asako, Shibano works alongside her younger brother Nozomu, Fujimura's trusted associate Okemoto, and other employees to rescue the factory. Meanwhile, a disgruntled Murao, with a history with Shibano, and an international investment firm called Horizon, make attempts to gain control of Majitech for their own motives.

Sugiyama was once the top copywriter at a major advertising firm before leaving to start his own agency. Despite facing challenges, his new company in a struggling port town attracts clients with modest requests. This marks the beginning of Sugiyama's journey as a small advertising agency, as depicted in the novel "Hana no Sakura Doori" from the "Unibasaru Koukokusha Series" by Ogiwara Hiroshi.

Taeko is employed at a financial institution that is affiliated with a foreign country. She is tasked with reviving a small company that has recently been acquired. Taeko faces challenges from the employees of the company, who are focused on advancing geothermal power as a potential energy solution. Initially seeing her new role as a step down, Taeko commits herself to turning the small company into a successful venture. This story is adapted from Jin Mayama's novel "Maguma."

Aspiring musician Mizuno Gota faces a dilemma when the convenience store where he is employed part-time unexpectedly shuts down. One day, he stumbles upon a newly-opened burger joint named Yankee Burger. Upon entering, Mizuno is approached by the owner Ozeki Katsuya, who requests his opinion on the burger's flavor. Mizuno critiques the lack of flavor in the burger, and to his surprise, he is offered a full-time position at the establishment. With hopes of easing his mother's worries and eventually fulfilling his dream of owning a Ferrari, Mizuno decides to take the entrance exam to join the burger shop as a full-time employee.

The narrative delves into the distinctive occupation of food procurers who earn a living by sourcing items for a trade show, presenting a new viewpoint on regional specialty delicacies

In November 1997, Yamaichi Securities, one of Japan's major brokerage firms, made the decision to shut down voluntarily. The company's leadership was unaware of around 260 billion yen in undisclosed debt until shortly before the closure. This hidden debt was in violation of regulations. Due to its size and lack of financial stability and support from banks, the Finance Ministry decided that instead of filing for bankruptcy, Yamaichi Securities should opt for a voluntary shutdown. Employees from certain departments, known as "outliers" within the company, remained dedicated to uncovering the truth and repaying customers even as the company faced collapse. These individuals were considered the last line of defense for the troubled brokerage.

Yamashita Kanta unexpectedly loses his job at a gaming company, leading to tension with his wife Saori, who works at the Labour Standards Supervision Office and can be intimidating when upset. In response, Kanta decides to venture into the popular trend of starting a bed and breakfast business. However, the new venture encounters numerous challenges initially. To make matters worse, Kanta's layoff is revealed at a particularly difficult moment, putting his marriage at risk. The question remains: will the bed and breakfast succeed?

Tozai Teito EFG Bank was established as a large financial institution through the amalgamation of Tozai Bank, EFG Bank, and Teito Bank under the supervision of the Financial Services Agency. Following the merger, former members of Teito Bank have assumed leadership roles, maintaining a hierarchical structure within the organization. Despite not originating from Teito Bank, Katsura Mitsuyoshi, a skilled trader, has risen to the position of Managing Director of the forex department due to his expertise. Conversely, Nihei Shohei, hailing from the general affairs department of Meikyo Bank (the predecessor of EFG Bank), strives diligently in his role, refusing to succumb to the established hierarchy. Unexpectedly, Tozai Teito EFG Bank faces a crisis of bankruptcy after engaging in clandestine discussions with government officials and experiencing a sharp decline in Japanese government bonds. Collaborating with Nihei, Katsura battles against foreign investors seeking to acquire the bank and conniving bureaucrats to ensure the company's survival. The outcome of their efforts remains uncertain.

Employed at a financial institution, Tetsuo Kashimura leads a comfortable life. However, his situation takes a turn for the worse when his bank merges with another one, leading to challenges at work. Witnessing his colleagues resign, Tetsuo decides to follow suit and leave his job. In his search for new opportunities, he crosses paths with Tomoya Yamamoto, the head of an investment firm, who discusses the possibility of reviving a chain of restaurants.

In 2015, during a period of growth in the internet economy and uncertainty in the capital market, Xie Lin Hui, an editor at a financial magazine, released a daring report that stirred up the investment industry and had consequences for investment manager Jiang Yi Di's professional life. Both individuals find themselves embroiled in a larger crisis as market conditions become unpredictable, shedding light on the challenges faced by middle-aged women and young professionals in their careers. (TMDb) Based on the novel "Cheng Se Guang Mang" by Gao Da Guo.

Overcome with regret and hopelessness, Oikawa Shimon roams in search of a place to take his own life. He stumbles upon a quaint eatery named "Magudaraya," perched on a cliff in a locale called "Jinkage." There, he enjoys a comforting meal prepared by the owner, Arima Ria (affectionately known as Maria), and before long, he finds himself asking for a second helping of rice due to its delectable taste. Subsequently, Shimon opts to lend a hand at the restaurant for a time. Through his interactions with Maria, the proprietress Reiko, the fisherman Katsuo, and the young man Maruka, who shares his own desire for an end, Shimon gradually starts to rediscover his will to live. However, one day, Maria mysteriously vanishes from "Jinkage." Though she runs "Magudaraya" with a cheerful demeanor, she harbors a significant secret.

Tsukuda Kohei used to lead the development of a space rocket but left the Space and Astronautical Science Agency due to the rocket launch failure. He now manages Tsukuda Manufacturing, a small factory in the historic downtown area. On the other hand, Teikoku Heavy Industries unveiled plans for a homegrown rocket launch during a press event. However, the project hit a snag when Zaizen Michio, the Aerospace Division's chief, discovered that the patent for the crucial engine component technology had already been filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing. In a desperate attempt to secure the patent, Zaizen offered Tsukuda 2 billion yen. But...

Tomishima Heita has been employed by a construction firm for three years, initially working on construction sites before being moved to the sales department. He becomes entangled in bid-rigging schemes within the company and learns that his father's death was linked to similar illegal activities. Now faced with the decision of either exposing the wrongdoing as a whistleblower or shielding the company he is employed by.

Natsuko Miyamoto, a 48-year-old stay-at-home mother to two children (Hana, 20, and Kotaro, 17), is taken aback when her husband Akira, aged 54, reveals his plans to leave his job and pursue his passion for agriculture. Feeling motivated to find her own employment, Natsuko encounters obstacles due to lack of experience and her age. However, a surprising turn of events leads her to discover potential job opportunities at a disorganized supermarket. (DramaWiki)

Kohei Tsukuda used to work for the Aerospace and Science Exploration Agency before taking over his father's small factory, Tsukuda Industries. Despite facing challenges in his relationship with his daughter Rina, Tsukuda Industries has seen some improvement in its operations. However, Tsukuda's focus on developing a rocket engine has led to a decline in business. The situation worsens when a major client suddenly decides to stop working with Tsukuda Industries and the company gets sued by a competitor, Nakashima Industries, for patent infringement. This results in damage to Tsukuda Industries' reputation and financial struggles with banks. In the midst of these difficulties, Teikoku Heavy Industries offers to purchase a patent held by Tsukuda Industries for 2 billion yen.

Kodera Masao, the head of Japan's largest newspaper, has made a decision to sell the publication to a foreign investor due to a decrease in readership and advertising revenue. The buyer, Aoi Sota, is the CEO of a major US online retailer named AMC. After Kodera's sudden passing, Shinzato Akira takes over and negotiations commence. Aoi, who has a background in journalism and a close relationship with Shinzato, presents challenging demands during the process. The true intentions behind Aoi's acquisition of the newspaper are questioned, raising concerns about potential changes to the established system that has long influenced Japan's media and politics.

Kimijima Hayato is employed by a large manufacturing corporation and strives for success in his career. Despite being considered for a promotion, he objects to a project led by his superior, resulting in his demotion to the role of general affairs chief at a factory in a rural area. Additionally, he is tasked with managing the company's rugby team, the Astros. Once a strong team, the Astros have faced a series of defeats recently. Kimijima Hayato aims to improve his reputation within the company by transforming the Astros into a competitive force, despite his lack of rugby knowledge.

Based on the book series "The Incredible Grandmother" by Mariko Hayashi.

In the spring of 1992, the Makioka family, a prominent family from Osaka Senba, hands over control of their company, bringing an end to a legacy that began almost 300 years ago in the Genroku period. Following this change, the four sisters who had lived a life of luxury must now navigate new paths. The eldest sister, Tsuruko, strives to maintain her pride by cherishing memories of the family's former glory, but faces the harsh realities of the present. Sachiko, the second sister, finds contentment in her kind husband, yet struggles with the unpredictable behaviors of her younger siblings. Yukiko, the third sister, is pressured to find a suitable marriage partner despite her tendency to focus on people's flaws during matchmaking sessions. Taeko, the youngest sister, rebels against the family's rules and embraces her free-spirited nature, engaging in numerous romantic relationships. One fateful night, Taeko is caught in a typhoon that strikes the Kansai region, setting in motion a series of events that will shape the destinies of the four sisters. This narrative is based on Tanizaki Junichiro's novel "Sasameyuki."

University student Wakamizu Ryota, in the midst of searching for a job, becomes involved in a sudden conflict between rival gangs

In Headhunter, the narrative explores the shifting landscape of job security, moving away from the concept of lifelong employment. The film delves into the contemporary labor market, following Kurosawa (played by Eguchi Yosuke) as he navigates the world of talent scouting in the headhunting industry.

Set in the late 1990s and early 2000s, this business drama unfolds during a time when the Japanese economy faced a downturn post the bubble burst. Traditional Japanese companies were now vulnerable to takeovers by foreign investors. Masahiko Washizu, a former Japanese bank employee turned New York-trained fund manager, returns to Tokyo with a mission to acquire Japanese businesses. Over the span of eight years, the story follows the journey of this relentless businessman, known as the "vulture," as well as the ambitions, challenges, and dreams of those involved in corporate acquisitions.

The story follows Takano, a short man who works as a professional locksmith, and a tall woman he meets in Bangkok named Eiko Kosaka. Despite being a foot taller than him, Takano falls for Eiko but keeps his feelings hidden due to his height insecurities. Their paths cross again in Tokyo, leading to the development of mutual feelings between them. The plot is adapted from the newspaper novel "Kimi wo Miagete" by Yamada Taichi.

Detective Mizunuma, along with his younger sister Rie who works at a document office, and psychiatrist Kamijo who manages a psychiatric clinic, collaborate to carry out a fraudulent scheme in order to repay their individual debts of 200 million yen each. Their first target is Inokuma Real Estate, a company that has profited from Social Security Agency regulations. Upon discovering that the company owns unsold land in Atami, the trio devises a plan to create a fictitious Elderly Housing with Care business to deceive Inokuma Real Estate into selling them the land.

In the novel "Akumu no Drive" by Kinoshita Hanta, a retired professional boxer and a failed comedian join forces to establish a transportation company. Initially, they acquire a vehicle and employ it to outsmart their adversaries.

Kinami has been chosen to portray the role of Hita Nanase, a housemaid who possesses the supernatural gift of telepathy, enabling her to unveil the hidden truths within the households she serves. The character was formerly portrayed by Takigawa Yumi and Hori Chiemi.

Due to the impact of a robust yen, the worldwide financial downturn, and the competitive challenge posed by emerging economies, the Japanese manufacturing sector finds itself in a delicate position. A major electronics manufacturer is teetering on the edge of insolvency, with only a 3-month financial buffer remaining. In a covert initiative, three employees from the company - representing sales, finance, and production departments - collaborate to establish a reconstruction team and diligently strive to rejuvenate the company.

Drawing inspiration from Hideo Aiba's novel "Chi no Wadachi."

Ryo Ichinose is employed as a sales representative at a branch of Hashiba Electronics, a medium-sized electronics manufacturer known for its extensive history. Unexpectedly, he is instructed to relocate to the main office. Despite his lack of standout qualities, the newly appointed company president, Matsumoto, recognizes Ichinose's persistence as a salesperson and assigns him to a five-person team tasked with devising strategies to enhance Hashiba Group's management. Together, Ichinose and his colleagues travel to Vietnam to explore opportunities for reducing costs. During their time in Vietnam, Ichinose uncovers a bribery scheme linked to the contract work between the main office and the subsidiary, stemming from a new business initiative known as a licensing program, which has greatly impacted Hashiba Group. Determined to bring about change and align the company with ethical practices, Ichinose is committed to realizing not only his own aspirations but also those of his fellow team members.

Tatsuya Ikegami is employed by a real estate firm and is involved in a multi-billion yen urban development endeavor in the city of Sachio. In order to acquire the required land, Tatsuya must identify the landowners. To accomplish this, he conceals his true identity and becomes a member of the Sachio volunteer fire department. Here, he encounters fellow volunteer firefighters such as Sakura Azumi and Atsushi Goda. Initially, Tatsuya, who prioritizes results, struggles to connect with them, but eventually undergoes a change. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Tatsuya and his colleagues at the real estate company, who are advocating for an alternative project site, escalates.

Yayoi, a licensed nurse at Hoshimigaoka Hospital, harbors a hidden past that she keeps to herself. Abandoned by her parents at a young age, she grew up in foster care, cherishing the hospital as her home. Despite her loneliness, she remains kind-hearted, avoiding conflict and immersing herself in her work. When Todo joins as the new head nurse, Yayoi initially resists her strong-willed approach but eventually finds herself drawn to Todo's presence. With Todo's influence, Yayoi is able to let go of her past and embrace a new beginning on her own terms.

If you find yourself in need of assistance and have no one to turn to, consider making a phone call as your first step. Akenabe Yugo works as a "rental saviour," someone who is able to fulfill nearly impossible requests for a limited time period. This unique rental service has emerged as a response to changes in the industry. However, Akenabe is simply a kind-hearted middle-aged man who has taken on this role as a way to earn extra money due to his significant debts, as well as to support his wife and child. In contrast, Aoi Denjiro, another rental saviour alongside Akenabe, is more of a show-off who enjoys being in the spotlight.

Natsuko Kotani seemed destined for deceit, while Tetsuko Ishida was a distant family member known for her integrity as a lawyer. Whenever Natsuko caused problems, Tetsuko was always called upon to resolve the situations. Feeling exploited by Natsuko, Tetsuko, who led a mundane life, started to undergo a transformation.

Fujimura Teppei, a member of the Shibuya Gyaruo group, started a business while still a student. After being inspired by a book written by venture company CEO Sawabe Susumu, he decided to join the company. Despite entering with high hopes, he found himself primarily involved in PR activities and mundane tasks. In an effort to change his situation, Teppei, along with his colleague Hidaka Takumi and intern Sasakawa Shota, entered an internal contest proposing a new influencer business venture. Their idea caught the attention of Sawabe, but they had to collaborate with senior colleague Yamano Taiichiro, who coincidentally had a similar proposal.

In a period of economic instability in Japan, Masahiko Washizu heads a foreign investment firm and faces backlash for his aggressive investment strategies. He endeavors to acquire a struggling bank and another company during their financial downturn.

Kotaro Tanimura, aged 22, demonstrated his intelligence by completing his MBA at the University of Cambridge in England ahead of schedule. Upon his return to Japan, he secured a position at a toy company, where his ambitious and enthusiastic nature shines through. Despite encountering challenges with difficult colleagues, Tanimura strives to handle them peacefully, as inspired by the self-help book "Atama ni Kitemo Aho towaTatakauna" authored by Kotaro Tamura.

After being taken over by the government three years ago, Ozora Bank continues to struggle without showing any signs of improvement. Nozaki Shuhei, who had revealed the bank's illicit activities while working as an auditor, is appointed as the president in an unorthodox manner. His extensive experience in corporate restructuring with the Industrial Revitalization Corporation of Japan led to his selection for the role due to his innovative approach.

The dynamic pair of Nagase Saichi, known for his honesty, and Tsukishita Sakura, who prioritizes customer satisfaction, return for the second season

Derived from the book "Kumokiri Nizaemon" by the author Ikenami Shotaro.

Based on Cao Xueqin's novel "Dream of the Red Chamber".

Derived from a publication bearing the identical name.

Based on the book "Kumokiri Nizaemon" by the author Ikenami Shotaro.

Set in 1955, a decade after the end of World War II, the story follows government officials at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) as they work towards making Japan as prosperous as the western world. The plot centers on Kazakoshi Shingo, also known as "Mr. Ministry of International Trade and Industry", and explores the conflict between the "industry supporters" advocating for the protection of national industry, and the "trade supporters" pushing for free trade to globalize the country. The drama received accolades at the 62nd Television Drama Academy Awards, with Sakai Masato winning Best Supporting Actor and Hirano Shunichi, Oka Susumu, and Matsuda Ayato winning Best Directors. (source: d-addicts)

The Ishihara brothers have led remarkable lives - one serving as the former mayor of Tokyo, while the other has gained fame as a prominent actor. An intricate biography was crafted by the elder sibling as a homage to his younger brother, a revered figure in the Japanese entertainment realm.

Based on Yamate Kiichiro's book "Momotaro Samurai" ( ), the following text has been modified.

After her adoptive mother, Atsuta Otomi, passed away, Endo Yuriko decides to return to her family home. She is not coming back out of concern for her father, Ryohei, who has been struggling since his wife's death. Yuriko has made the difficult decision to divorce her husband, Hiroyuki. However, upon her return, a young woman named Imoto Sachie appears at the house, claiming to have been sent by Otomi to assist with household chores until the 49th day. Sachie also reveals Otomi's wish for a celebratory feast rather than a traditional Buddhist memorial service on her 49th day. Initially hesitant, father and daughter eventually warm up to the idea after discovering a recipe left behind by Otomi.

Hajime Onchi is in charge of the labor union committee at the national airline NAL. Along with vice committee head Shiro Gyoten, they approach NAL management to request improved working conditions due to the current poor conditions that could result in serious accidents. Despite always prioritizing safety, Hajime is relocated to a distant overseas location as a consequence. In the meantime, Shiro switches sides and aligns with management to advance his career. A tragic airplane crash involving NAL occurs. Hajime Onchi returns to Japan to console the grieving families. In an effort to revive NAL, the government appoints Masayuki Kunimi as the new president. The new president tasks Hajime with investigating the widespread corruption within the airline. During his investigation, Hajime encounters his former ally Shiro Gyoten, who tries to hinder his efforts.

Harashima Manji holds a typical position as a section chief at a small to medium-sized business that serves as a subcontractor for a prominent electronics company. Upon stumbling upon irregularities in a string of personnel shifts, he becomes entangled in a battle against a formidable adversary.

One day, Fujimaki Daisuke, a mundane middle-aged office worker at a trading company, is instructed to temporarily join the cheering squad at Asunaro University instead of facing a layoff. The company president's alma mater's cheering squad is at risk of disbandment. During a meeting with alumni, Fujimaki is appointed as the head of the cheering squad. He is thrust into this new role, learning the traditional customs such as always wearing the school uniform, saying "Ossu" in response, and following the seniors' instructions. Under the guidance of old boy Saito Yuichi, Fujimaki becomes captivated by the profound philosophy of providing support in a tangible way.