Asian dramas like
Ballad Of Seo Dong

The tale of King Geun Cho Go, the warrior monarch of Baekje, unfolded during a time when the kingdom flourished. His leadership saw military victories that enabled him to dominate a substantial portion of the Korean peninsula, leading to a significant increase in political influence, which marked the pinnacle of Baekje's historical power.

Gye Baek was the son of Mu Jin, a student and protector of King Mu of Baekje. However, due to his father's wrongful accusations, he was raised as an ordinary person on the bustling market streets. There, he encounters a merchant named Eun Go, and he quickly develops feelings for her. One fateful day, after being involved in a skirmish in the mountains, Gye Baek is captured and forced into servitude as a war slave for Silla. While in Silla, he meets Uija, who has arrived as an envoy, and discovers a significant secret regarding his father's demise. Despite their strong bond, both King Uija and Gye Baek find themselves drawn to Eun Go. Gye Baek’s unwavering allegiance to Baekje and his friendship with King Uija shape a pivotal moment in history. How will the dynamics of the relationship unfold between Uija, Gye Baek, and Eun Go?

This drama explores the journey of Kim Soo Ro, the famed founder of Geumgwan Gaya, the leading city-state within the Gaya confederacy that excelled in maritime trade and iron production during the Three Kingdoms Period. Kim Soo Ro relies on his passionate nature, charm, and intellect as he navigates the protracted political conflicts he faces, including rivalry for the throne from his half-brother and longtime adversary, Ijinashi, his former ally Suk Tal Hae, and the menacing ambitions of Shin Kwi Gan.

In the era of Emperor Wu of Han, Princess Jie You was dispatched to Xiyu as a form of Heqin. In this new land, she faced the challenge of adjusting to her surroundings and managing her husband's harem. Through her dedication, the Han dynasty emerged victorious over the Xiongnu tribe, leading to the spread of Han culture in Xiyu.

The tale of the tragic love affair between Zhu Yi Huan, the final princess of the Ming Dynasty, and Kangxi, the youthful emperor of the Qing Dynasty. (TheTVDB.com)

After the downfall of Dan City, Princess Dan Li sustains an injury from her childhood friend Su Mu under suspicious circumstances. Fortunately, she encounters Emperor Zhaoyuan Qin Yu, who heals her before exiling her to a forgotten realm due to her flattery. Supported by her clumsy yet devoted companions, including a trustworthy sorcerer and attendants, the romance between a scatterbrained princess and a haughty, stoic emperor gradually unfolds. (WeTV)

Princess Sheng Ping is a determined royal who has a strong affection for Jiju. She escapes the palace to watch her favorite Jiju player, Chen Shao Tang, and amusingly crosses paths with Guo Ai, the sixth son of the Prince of Fenyang. Despite a rocky start, they eventually become close friends by helping each other and making valuable connections. Their bond deepens after failed romances lead them to marriage, although challenges arise due to Sheng Ping's royal status. Trouble brews when Guo Ai's ex-lover, Luo Xia, returns to cause discord. A drunken Guo Ai lashes out at Sheng Ping after she misses a family celebration, leading to a strained relationship between them. (DramaWiki; adapted from the Chinese folk tale "Zui Da Jin Zhi")

The love story between the Crown Prince of Eastern Song, Lian Chaochen, and the princess of Southern Chu, Bai Die, from rival kingdoms. (DramaWiki)

The plot revolves around Emperor Wang Gun, who established the Goryo Dynasty.

To ensure Koryo's independence, Gong Min Wang wed a woman he had no affection for. With Mongolian forces in control of Koryo, he took the Mongolian princess as his wife, believing this alliance might eventually lead to Koryo's liberation. Shin Don, a Buddhist monk, was a key advisor to both Queen Nokuk and King Gong Min in their governance of Koryo.

The narrative revolves around the life of Dae Jo Yeong, who is recognized as the founder of the Balhae kingdom.

Chung Nyeong, born as the third prince, was far from being in line for the throne. His formative years were marked by turmoil as Korea dealt with political strife both internally and externally, and he even faced the threat of abduction during his childhood. As he grew, the young prince found himself residing in a private home outside the palace, experiencing the daily lives of ordinary citizens until he reached young adulthood. Upon eventually taking the throne, Chung Nyeong, who became known as King Se Jong, worked to stabilize the newly established nation and fostered the flourishing culture of Joseon. During this time, he also created Hangul, the writing system used in Korea.

The son of the renowned doctor Gu Feng from Qingyuantang pharmacy tragically drowned, leading Gu Feng's mother to blame their butler, Fang Cheng. Feeling resentful, Fang Cheng, who had a daughter named Qiang Wei with his mistress He Xiu, decided to swap his daughter with Gu Feng's daughter Ren Dong, who had been previously fostered elsewhere. Qiang Wei was raised in luxury by the Gu family, while Ren Dong grew up in poverty with He Xiu. As adults, Ren Dong coincidentally found employment at Qingyuantang pharmacy and crossed paths with Han Chong, a man who had faced numerous hardships in his life. Ren Dong's positive attitude and medical skills quickly earned her popularity at the pharmacy, including catching the attention of Zheng Ding, her longtime crush. When Fang Cheng discovered Ren Dong's true identity, he plotted against her and convinced Gu Feng's mother to create obstacles for her. Qiang Wei, upon learning her real heritage, also worked to prevent Ren Dong from reuniting with her family. With the support of Han Chong and Zheng Ding, Ren Dong persevered through challenges and emerged as a respected doctor. Fang Cheng's deceitful actions were eventually exposed, leading to his punishment, and Ren Dong was ultimately able to reunite with her family.

After losing her parents at a young age, Liu E journeys to the capital city of Kaifeng where she attracts the attention of Zhao Heng. Despite being a concubine, Liu E displays a keen understanding of political matters and frequently engages in discussions with Zhao Heng. This dynamic persists even after Zhao Heng ascends to the throne in 997. Following the adoption of a concubine's son (who later becomes Emperor Renzong), Liu E is named empress and assumes the role of regent for the Song Dynasty during the final two years of her husband's rule. Liu E continues to govern until her passing in 1033, twelve years later. This account draws inspiration from the remarkable life of Empress Zhangxian Mingsu, also known as Liu E of the Song Dynasty.

The narrative revolves around Kim Choon Choo, who played a pivotal role in unifying the three ancient kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, ultimately leading to the revival of the Silla Kingdom. This drama creatively reinterprets the historical accounts of the founders of United Silla, King Taejong Mooyeol and King Moon Moo, infusing them with imaginative storytelling. It also emphasizes Kim Choon Choo's leadership, which ushered in a remarkable cultural flourishing in the nation’s past. This series imparts valuable lessons about monumental endeavors, vision, loyalty, and the dynamics of success and failure by exploring the lives of the political figures and heroes from that time. It aims to convey the virtues necessary for thriving in an era of boundless competition.

A Chinese TV show that tells the story of King Goujian from the ancient state of Yue during the Spring and Autumn period. (Wikipedia)

During their childhood, Huai Yu, Zhi Gao, and Dan Dan made a pact to be as close as siblings and visited a mysterious old eunuch for fortune-telling using divination sticks. However, the sticks were accidentally shuffled by the eunuch's cat before they could be interpreted. One stick mentioned preferring death over birth, another suggested life was better than death, and the third talked about dying and being reborn. The meaning behind these messages remains a mystery.

The biography of Huang Dao Po, a trailblazing woman who transformed the Chinese textile sector amidst the Mongol invasion of the Song dynasty and the rise of the Yuan dynasty.

Qin Yue Xiang, a former housekeeper, unintentionally causes the death of her husband who was a builder while trying to protect her 9-year-old daughter Sang Cai Qing from being forced into marriage with an elderly man. Facing punishment by the local official Xiao Ru Zhang, Yue Xiang arranges for Cai Qing to seek safety with her biological father, wealthy businessman Chen Yuan. However, Chen's envious wife, Yu Ru, forces Cai Qing to work as a servant in their mansion. As Cai Qing grows older, she becomes entangled in a series of romantic entanglements.

During the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD), known as one of the most violent in Chinese history, the story unfolds of the love affair between Zhen Fu and Cao Cao, as well as his sons Cao Zhi and Cao Pi.

In ancient times, there was a mystical being known as Hu Xiao Li, who could transform into a human form. She experienced a heartbreaking love story during the Han Dynasty. Originally tasked with protecting the prince, Gong Hao, who was targeted for assassination, Xiao Li's mother intervened and saved him, living in obscurity as a commoner. When the Emperor discovered Gong Hao was his son, he brought him back to the palace. The Emperor's rage towards his consort, Concubine Shu, who had ordered the prince's assassination and killed his mother, the Empress, led to his demise. Gong Hao then assumed the throne, with Xiao Li becoming Empress. However, their love faced challenges when Tang Shi Shi came between them and won Gong Hao's heart, becoming his consort. Tang Shi Shi falsely accused Xiao Li of plotting to harm her, prompting Xiao Li to reveal her true form as a nine-tailed fox. Gong Hao, devastated, sentenced her to death. Just before her execution, he reminisced about their joyful marriage. Tang Shi Shi, fearing Gong Hao's forgiveness, urged her execution. Xiao Li escaped using her powers but was punished by her mother with a thousand years of imprisonment in ice for using her abilities in the mortal realm. Years later, Gong Hao, facing personal turmoil, inadvertently freed Xiao Li while hiking in the mountains. They reunited and married, but Tang Shi Shi's interference threatened their happiness once again. The question remains: will Xiao Li endure another tragic love story or fight for Gong Hao's love?

In the Tang Dynasty, Eunuch Ju murders five government officials to cover up his crimes, but Prime Minister Mu discovers the evidence. When Prime Minister Mu's daughter, Mu Fu Rong, rejects a forced marriage and attempts suicide, she is rescued by a mysterious hero. Eunuch Ju now sees Mu Fu Rong and her family as his enemies due to the rescue incident.

The leader of the Huns, Huhanxie Shanyu, made the decision to establish diplomatic ties with the powerful Han Dynasty for the benefit of his tribe. However, his brother Hutuwusi disagreed with this plan due to being influenced by the Qulan family. Despite having exceptional beauty and skills, Wang Zhao Jun was still destined to serve in the palace. Upon entering the court, Wang Zhao Jun used her intelligence and bravery to navigate the dangers of the harem. As Hu Hanxie Shanyu pushed for peace with the Han Dynasty, Wang Zhao Jun, who was reluctant to remain in the palace, took the initiative to visit them. After facing various challenges, she eventually set off on a long journey to the distant lands of the Huns.

In the aftermath of World War II in Shanghai in 1945, Tang Teng, a fighter pilot, and Shen Ying, a Qi Pao saleswoman, fell in love. Despite facing consequences such as being court-martialed for desertion, Tang Teng was determined to be with Shen Ying. He was ultimately saved from a death sentence by family friend Ji Wen, who helped him escape to Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Shen Ying, believing Tang Teng to be dead, agreed to marry another man for financial support. However, upon learning that Tang Teng was alive in Hong Kong from expert tailor Lu Xiao Mao, she broke off the engagement and traveled to Hong Kong. Instead of a joyful reunion, Shen Ying discovered that Tang Teng had married Ji Wen.

A tale about Concubine Meng, a mischievous woman who initially clashes with the King but eventually falls in love with him. Meng is the daughter of a prominent official in the Sui Dynasty. Upon entering the palace, she is exposed to the deceit and schemes within the royal family. Choosing not to let others control her fate, Meng feigns illness. During her time in the palace, she befriends Concubine Yan, who is clever, Concubine Qu, who is emotional and loves food, and Concubine Xiao, a skilled martial artist from a family of generals. The four women quickly bond and become like sisters in the palace. Due to ongoing disagreements with Meng's father, the King decides to confront Meng one day, but unexpectedly finds himself drawn to her unique personality. Despite the King's efforts to spend time with her, Meng tries to avoid him. It is only after a chance meeting outside the palace that Meng begins to see the King's positive and endearing qualities.

The ruler of the Great Zhao Kingdom grew weaker each day and decided to pass his throne to Crown Prince Ning Xiao. The emperor also arranged for the Crown Prince to wed the prime minister's daughter, but Ning Xiao planned to avoid the marriage. Despite his efforts to escape, Ning Xiao was injured and later saved by Doctor Bai Zhi. Surprisingly, they developed a deep connection. Meanwhile, General Wei Shu from the Wuzhou Kingdom was tasked with locating the missing princess of Wuzhou, Ruo Xi.

This drama narrates the tale of Jang Hee Bin, a renowned royal concubine during the Joseon Dynasty, who played a significant part in the ousting of King Sook Jong’s spouse, Queen In Hyun. However, in contrast to the numerous dramas and films that depict this infamous antagonist, this series will explore the life of Jang Ok Jung prior to her rise as concubine Jang Hee Bin, highlighting her contributions as a fashion designer and cosmetic creator in the Joseon period.

King Mu Ryeong was a monarch of Baekje who presided over a cultural revival during his rule while transforming his realm into a maritime force. He had a concealed daughter named Soo Baek Hyang, who was unable to attain the status of princess because of her malevolent half-sister, Seol Hee. Nevertheless, Baek Hyang demonstrated profound loyalty to her father and a strong sense of patriotism. Eventually, she rose to become the leader of Bimun, a clandestine intelligence organization that supported her nation in times of conflict. Her contributions secured her a lasting place in the history of Baekje. (MBC)

A distinguished academic unexpectedly finds himself as the guardian of a playful princess. Gyeon Woo enjoys the reputation of being “Joseon’s National Treasure,” celebrated as one of the leading scholars of his era. When the king requests that he properly instruct his spirited daughter, Princess Hye Myung, Gyeon Woo realizes he faces a significant challenge. However, as rebels threaten Hye Myung and jeopardize her future rule, Gyeon Woo unwittingly steps into the role of her protector. What starts as a job he never anticipated transforms into a mission to save Hye Myung from a dire fate and secure her throne. (Viki)

In the fictional land of Dongbangguk, Hwa Ri is the youngest princess in the royal family. Raised with a strong sense of independence, she decides to take matters into her own hands when it comes time to marry. Venturing outside the palace, she meets potential suitors while also searching for the artist behind a series of provocative paintings featuring her likeness. Among the candidates is Choi Hwan, a wealthy merchant known for his good looks and charm. Despite his reputation for enjoying the finer things in life, he harbors a mysterious secret.

Upon awakening, Xi Dang Yang discovers that she has been transported into the role of the crown princess. The world she now inhabits is filled with complexities beyond her imagination. To her surprise, she is now the wife of five exceptionally talented and virtuous men, as well as a mother to a daughter. As she navigates the treacherous waters of palace politics and the intricacies of her own harem, she must determine who she can truly rely on and what perils await her on the horizon.

The story revolves around Moo Hyul, the grandson of Jumong, who is fated to bring harm to his parents, siblings, and son, ultimately leading to the downfall of Goguryeo. (DramaWiki)

Taking place in the era of the Chinese Tang Dynasty, Princess Chiu Yeung, the spoiled daughter of the Tang Emperor, is known for her unreasonable behavior, making her undesirable as a potential wife. The Kam family, who are prominent gold producers in Beijing, face financial difficulties after being cheated. To address this crisis, the manager of their goldsmith store, Ting Loi Hei, proposes to the family's second son, Gum Do Luk, and third son, Gum Do Sau, that they consider pursuing the Princess as a way to solve their financial woes. In order to save their family's business, Do Luk agrees to the arrangement. Although initially hesitant, the Princess eventually sees the marriage as a better option than being forced to marry the undesirable Tibetan king. Upon entering her new family, the Princess, accompanied by her personal servants, proves to be controlling and arrogant, causing tension among the household members. Will Princess Chiu Yeung's stubbornness be enough to win over her new husband?

During the early 1900s in China, Xiao Yue Gui, a young girl from the countryside, moves to Shanghai to avoid starvation. By rescuing Yu Qi Yang, a member of the Pujiang Association, the most powerful gang in Shanghai, she gains access to the leaders of the organization. This leads her to start working at their brothel, which alters the course of her life. Xiao Yue Gui is now on a journey to become the next "King of Shanghai," following in the footsteps of three previous generations, as depicted in Hong Ying's novel.

Due to financial difficulties, Wen Yu He's father agreed to have her marry into the Gu family as the wife of Madam Gu's third son. With Madam Gu's first son missing and her second son deceased, all hope was placed on Yu He and her remaining brother-in-law. The third son, Shao Tang, is known for his reckless behavior, spending time in brothels and gambling away his money. Madam Gu believed that Yu He could positively influence her son. Yun Kai, a school teacher, disguised himself as a groundskeeper to work in the Gu household, assisting with accounting and the family's lantern business. Despite facing mistreatment from her older sister-in-law, Yu He remains devoted to Shao Tang. As tensions rise and hidden agendas come to light, the Gu family's secrets begin to unravel, revealing a web of deceit and betrayal.

In the 1930s, the setting for this tale is in the southern region of Fujian

The plot revolves around Bai Wen Huan, who is the head of the Northern Shaanxi Brothers Association

Shen Xin Ci escapes from her dangerous fiance, Liang Yong Chang, after discovering the truth. Along the way, she encounters Zhao Shi Jun, who shows compassion by giving her money to settle her father's medical bills. Following her father's passing, Xin Ci resolves to find Shi Jun and repay his kindness, regardless of the request. To resolve conflicts between Shahe Town and Wan Jia Village and secure the water supply, Zhao Shi Jun is compelled to marry Mayor Wan's daughter, Wan Qiu Ling. On their journey to Qiu Ling's new home, she falls ill due to a lifelong condition but is saved by a mysterious doctor, Liang Yong Chang. He offers a cure for her illness but warns that she will be unable to conceive in the future. Determined to continue her family line, Qiu Ling follows Yong Chang's advice and switches places with another girl to ensure pregnancy. Unbeknownst to Yong Chang, the other girl happens to be his former fiance, Shen Xin Ci. Now, Yong Chang seeks revenge on Zhao Shi Jun and anyone else in his path.

During the 1930s in Shanghai, Peng Yu Tian, a National Army officer, bravely fought against the Japanese forces and was gravely wounded. He was saved by Lei Jin Yi, a field nurse, and the two developed a deep bond. Just as they were preparing to wed, Peng was called back to the battlefield. Tragically, Peng's family was targeted and bombed by the Japanese. Lei managed to escape with Peng's child and later assumed a new identity as Shen Han Bing, working as a dancer to support her family. Meanwhile, Peng, believing Lei had perished in the bombing, went on to marry a wealthy businessman named Wu Jiang. However, fate brought Peng and Lei back together when they crossed paths at a party hosted by Wujiang. As a member of the Communist underground, Peng was tasked with investigating Wu Jiang, and sought Lei's help in uncovering the truth. It was ultimately revealed that Wu Jiang was a Japanese spy posing as a Chinese. After the Anti-Japanese War, Wu Jiang attempted to flee with Lei, but was apprehended and met his end at the hands of Peng and Lei.