Asian dramas like
Check In Hanyang

Kook In Yeob is the sole offspring of an aristocratic family. Renowned for her elegance and beauty, her life takes a drastic turn when an event causes her to lose her noble status and descend into the lower class. Throughout her trials, she discovers resilience and inner strength. Meanwhile, Moo Myung, the most handsome servant in Hanyang, conceals his true identity while masquerading as a servant, shrouded in mystery. (d-addicts)

Kim Yun Hee is an intelligent and responsible young woman driven by her independence. Following her father's death, she has taken on the responsibility of supporting her family while excelling in her academic pursuits. When her younger brother's health deteriorates and their family faces the risk of eviction due to financial struggles, Kim Yun Hee, in a bid to help him, decides to take the men's national exam using her brother's name, disguising herself as a boy. On the day of the examination, she encounters Lee Seon Joon and they form a friendship. Lee Seon Joon hails from a wealthy background and is not only handsome but also quite arrogant. Both successfully pass the national exam, leading to them sharing a room at Sungkyunkwan University, where she must conceal her true identity. During her time there, she also befriends the charming Goo Yong Ha and the rebellious Moon Jae Shin.

This story takes place in the 1930s during Japan's occupation of Korea. Na Yeo Gyeong owned a bookstore and was also an activist for independence. Seon U Wan, the affluent family's playboy son, got involved in the struggle for freedom after making a wager with his colleagues to win over Na Yeo Gyeong. His father financed the education of his employee's son, Lee Su Hyeon, only to be dismayed upon discovering he was working for the Japanese government's Security Branch. Cha Song Ju was a renowned gisaeng who operated a prestigious brothel.

Pottery from the Joseon dynasty was distinguished by its superior quality and innovative firing techniques during the late 16th century. Baek Pa Seon, known as the "woman of fire," was the first female potter in Joseon and recognized as the master of Shintaro porcelain. Crown Prince Gwang Hae held a deep affection for her but ultimately had to part ways. This television series focuses on her formative years in Joseon rather than Japan, where a shrine honors her legacy. (MBC)

In the 1930s, Guangzhou was facing a period of political unrest, with gangsters causing chaos and the illegal opium trade flourishing. To combat this, the government established the Anti-Smoking Bureau to crack down on opium, but it was actually controlled by Cheng Long Kwan, the leader of the gang. Cheng Kau Mui, Kwan's cunning eldest daughter, returned from Shanghai to capitalize on the profits. Mui carefully strategized her every move. Meanwhile, Lau Sing led the Criminal Investigation Team, working tirelessly to secure a better future for his family, especially his sickly sister Lau Ching. Despite his fiery temper, Sing valued loyalty and camaraderie above all else. He once risked his life to help his timid colleague, Pai Kuat. As the Japanese army invaded China and took control of Canton, Mui faced her darkest hour when her aunt Cheng Long Hei framed her.

The plot centers on three adolescent boys who were raised in the vicinity of Kamakuragashi near Edo Castle, along with a girl who is admired by all three boys. As they navigate through life, their friendship, romantic relationships, and challenges help them transition into adulthood, all while being supported by their kind and nurturing neighbors.

This drama portrays the story of Kim Man Deok, a woman from Jeju Island who rose above her humble beginnings as a gisaeng and the limitations imposed by her isolated birthplace, which was viewed as a distant exile at that time. She emerged as a prosperous female trader during the Joseon Era. Eventually, she gained recognition as a paragon of virtue and nobility by donating her entire fortune to assist the people of Jeju during a famine, thereby saving numerous lives.

The story of The Butterfly Lovers is a heartbreaking tale of love. It starts with a wealthy girl who dresses as a boy to further her education at a school. At the academy, she forms a close bond with Liang Shan Bo. Despite studying together day and night, Shan Bo is too absorbed in his studies to notice her true identity. By the time they realize their feelings for one another, it is too late as Ying Tai is pressured into marrying someone else.

Baek Dae Gil and King Yeong Jo face off in a high-stakes game. Baek Dae Gil wagers his life, while King Yeong Jo stakes the entire Joseon Kingdom on the result. Renowned as the greatest gambler of the Joseon period, Baek Dae Gil harbors intense bitterness within, yet maintains a composed facade. King Yeong Jo is a ruler who never bows his head without a compelling justification. At the same time, Dam Seo is driven solely by a desire for vengeance against the king.

Cheng Yue Liang, a man with autism, is saved by his stepmother in a crucial accident after his father dies during the war with Japan in the 1940s. The narrative explores their tumultuous lives and close familial bond. The drama features acclaimed screenwriter Cheung Wah Biu, known for works like 'Moonlight Resonance', 'Rosy Business', 'No Regrets', and the 80s trilogy 'The Legend of the Condor Heroes'.

Si Young, the eldest son of Park Hee Chan, is aware of the reason behind his father's insistence on him succeeding the family business. He is known for his ruthless business tactics and gradually evolves into a formidable leader while managing the guild. On the other hand, Jae Young, his younger brother, forges his own path and refrains from adopting his brother's cutthroat business approach.

The plot of the drama revolves around the question of what might occur if Lee Myong Ryong were to be considered unattractive, whereas his servant Bang Ja Jeon possessed good looks. As Lee Myong Ryong pursues Lady Chun Hyang, both individuals utilize their servants as intermediaries for communication...

Freshman Lin Lan enjoys attending Prince of White Horse School due to his affection for a classmate. With the help of a friend's suggestion, Lin Lan agreed to participate in a "beauty challenging the hero" performance, which unfortunately resulted in a real injury and a trip to the hospital. Despite this setback, a romantic relationship blossomed between the two young individuals. Fast forward four years, Lin Lan was on the brink of graduation while struggling to secure employment. In contrast, Lin Lan's partner, Xiao Bei, faced challenges in finding a job due to his humble background. This discrepancy in their situations led to feelings of inadequacy and tension in their relationship. Unable to comprehend Xiao Bei's struggles, Lin Lan and Xiao Bei eventually parted ways.

The narrative follows the relationship between Meng Li Jun, the skilled and attractive daughter of a high-ranking official, and Huang Fu Shao Hua, the courageous and good-looking son of a general. Their fathers' political differences led to General Huang Fu forbidding his son from pursuing Meng Li Jun. Instead, the Empress Dowager's nephew from the Liu family was chosen to marry Meng Li Jun. Following General Huang Fu's defeat in a battle, the Emperor accused him of treason and ordered the entire family to be imprisoned. Huang Fu Shao Hua managed to escape, prompting Meng Li Jun, who was in love with him, to disguise herself as a man in order to seek justice for the Huang Fu family.

Tao Mo, a lively individual from a respectable family background, acquires a position as a county magistrate in Tanyang, a renowned area for legal professionals due to the presence of esteemed barristers Lin Zheng Yong and Yi Chui. Despite being illiterate and lacking formal education, Tao Mo is filled with remorse and aspires to serve as a committed magistrate in honor of his deceased father. Shortly after assuming his official duties, he encounters Gu She, a pupil of the prominent barrister Yi Chui, and develops a fondness for him. Although Gu She is self-absorbed and conceited, Tao Mo's integrity in handling cases according to his own principles captures Gu She's interest. While it may seem like a simple tale of Tao Mo's determination to excel as a magistrate for his father's sake, there are numerous enigmatic elements that underlie this narrative.

Sin Yun Bok is a skilled artist who masquerades as a male in order to track down her father's killer

Growing up in a poor family, Xue Wen Xi is no stranger to difficulties. Determined to support her family, Wen Xi has gone to great lengths to make ends meet. When the opportunity arose for her to work as a writer, she seized it, even though it required her to pretend to be a boy. Everything seemed fine until the day Feng Cheng Jun, the Prime Minister's son, entered her life. Impressed by Wen Xi's writing, Cheng Jun orchestrated a plan that forced Wen Xi to enroll in the prestigious Yun Shang Academy, a school that exclusively admitted male students. Forced to continue her disguise as a boy using her brother's name, Wen Xi, now known as Wen Bin, navigates her new life with the constant fear of her secret being discovered. Despite her anxieties, Wen Xi excels academically at the academy, earning the respect and friendship of a group of scholars who become known as the "Yun Shang Quartet." With the support of her loyal friends and a budding romance, Wen Xi finds the courage to face the challenges that come her way. However, will her newfound strength falter once her hidden truths are exposed?

Between 1937 and 1945, three intellectual families in Peiping faced significant challenges and upheaval, leading two generations to make decisions and sacrifices. Some individuals opted to preserve Chinese culture and uphold the cultural legacy, including both idealists and pragmatic activists. They worked tirelessly to safeguard the nation, navigate the difficult circumstances, and ultimately move towards a brighter future. (CdramaLove)

In 1915 Hong Kong, Xiao La Ba has harbored a lifelong ambition to eliminate evil from the world. To pursue this goal, he enlisted in the Marines and joined Project A with a small group of allies to combat pirates. Their mission kicks off with a daring infiltration of the pirate stronghold.

This comedic story follows the mayhem, challenges, and camaraderie at a boys' boarding school when a girl disguises herself as a boy and enrolls. Ashiya Mizuki returns to Japan from California, where she grew up, and falls for Sano Izumi, a former high jump star who has given up on the sport. Determined to see him return to his passion, she decides to attend the same high school in disguise! Sporting a new haircut, a flattened chest, and a deeper voice, she moves into Sano's room.

"The King's Face" narrates the tale of Prince Gwang Hae, an illegitimate offspring of King Seon Jo, who grapples with his father's indifference and a persistent sense of not belonging within the royal palace from a young age

Yoon Dan Oh used to live a comfortable life as the cherished youngest daughter of a wealthy family, but things have changed. She now supports her family by managing the Ihwawon Inn, where current guests are scholars preparing for the civil service exam in hopes of securing high-ranking positions. Among them are Kang San, Kim Si Yeol, and Jeong Yoo Ha, all harboring deep secrets. Together with Yoon Dan Oh, they will collaborate to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of Lee Seol thirteen years ago.

Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty (during a tumultuous era marked by justification conflicts and espionage as the Ming transitioned to the Qing), the story unfolds during a time of heightened public demand for social change. This historical action-romance drama, structured in three arcs, depicts the lives of warriors and spies navigating the complexities of borders. It centers on Crown Prince So Hyeon, his loyal bodyguards Heo Seung Po and An Min Seo, and Park Dal Hyang, a yangban warrior who, despite his humble beginnings, possesses charm and good looks. Dal Hyang finds himself entangled in a love triangle involving Yoon Seo, the Crown Princess, and Crown Prince So Hyeon. Additionally, Jo Mi Ryeong, who was once the prince’s first love, transforms into his adversary, seeking vengeance against him. Loosely inspired by Alexandre Dumas's novel "The Three Musketeers."

In order to safeguard herself and her family, Hong Ra On takes on the guise of a man and provides dating advice to men. After she pens a love letter for one of her clients, she encounters Crown Prince Hyo Myung. Neither Ra On nor Hyo Myung realizes the true identity of the other; she is unaware that he is the Crown Prince, and he does not know that she is a woman. Shortly thereafter, Ra On is compelled to become a eunuch by loan sharks, leading to a mutual attraction between her and the Crown Prince. As Ra On struggles to navigate life in the palace and Hyo Myung embarks on his path to kingship, will their romance flourish?

Wang Won is the son of the king of Goryeo and the daughter of the Yuan emperor serves as his mother. He possesses numerous gifts, including striking looks, the cunning wisdom of a serpent, and a captivating charm that attracts others. However, beneath his kind and noble exterior lies a desire to expand his dominion. His loyal companion, Rin, a royal cousin, shares similar aspirations. One day, Wang Won encounters a young woman named San, who he remembers meeting in his childhood and who has lingered in his thoughts ever since. Observing San's brightness and self-assurance, he forms a friendship with her. Yet, this bond sows the seeds of impending tragedy, as both Won and Rin find themselves enchanted by San's beauty, causing their once-strong friendship to begin to unravel over her. (MBC America)

Set against the backdrop of the shift from the Goryeo to the Joseon dynasty, two friends find themselves at odds because of their contrasting beliefs regarding "my country." Seo Hwi, a formidable warrior and the offspring of a celebrated commander, cannot stand injustice, which leads to turmoil in his life, even as he wears a smile. On the other hand, Nam Sun Ho, a bright and gifted individual, endures prejudice because of his mother’s low status. A scandal involving corruption tarnishes his father's reputation, causing Nam Sun Ho to forfeit his aspiration of succeeding in the military service exam, further escalating his conflict with Seo Hwi due to a misunderstanding.

The narrative revolves around a woman entangled in a violent love affair with two princes

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

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.

"The Tale of Qin Cheng" narrates the renowned saga of Meng's Household and Lin's Household near the Yellow River. In the past, Meng Xiang He, the heir of Meng's clan, wedded Lin Xiang Yu, the offspring of Lin's Household, in an arranged marriage. However, he absconded shortly after the ceremony. Consequently, Meng's Household agreed to a settlement: if Meng Xiang He did not return within six years, they would compensate Lin's Household with ten thousand silver dollars and over sixty thousand square meters of land. After six years, Meng Xiang He reappeared with his newfound lover as his wife. This led to a complex web of emotions involving both families and wives. Leveraging his business acumen, he amassed a fortune through trading hookahs and rose to become the wealthiest individual in Qingcheng, earning himself the status of a legendary figure. As the prolonged feud neared its conclusion, the true identity of the main antagonist was finally revealed. (Q1Q2)

Portrays the heartfelt romance of a cluster of adolescents during the 1980s amidst a shifting societal landscape

Taking place in Shanghai during the 1930s, this famous story follows the journey of Zhang Lian Xin, a former maid who defies her predetermined fate during China's conflict with Japan. In her pursuit of liberty and affection, Lian Xin becomes entangled in Zhang Wen Jin's plot to overthrow his father, leading to her and Chong Yang being falsely accused of a crime. As they face numerous challenges while battling against Wen Jin and the Japanese forces, Lian Xin and Chong Yang develop a romantic relationship. In an attempt to protect Chong Yang, Lian Xin chooses to turn down He Tian, a wealthy admirer who is deeply in love with her, and instead weds Ma Kun, the influential leader of Shanghai Bund's underworld. Upon uncovering Ma Kun's true nature and facing the wrath of the Japanese, Lian Xin and Chong Yang make the ultimate sacrifice by relinquishing their love and lives in the name of freedom and justice.

This is the tale of two youthful samurai, Itsuma Toudo and Shinsaburo Takeda, embarking on a mission to combat wickedness. Their primary aim is to emulate their leader Kinshiro Toyama, who champions the underprivileged peasants, and earn a reputation as an exemplary individual.

Consort Shun expressed her discontent with her elder sister Consort Yu by spreading rumors about her within the palace. The nanny, Sheung Ling, had ulterior motives as she pretended to help uncover the truth for others, when in reality she was scheming for personal gain. She managed to earn Consort Yu's trust and they became close friends. The arrival of Kunqu Opera artist Ko Lau Fei and FaDan Wan Chau Yin stirred up emotions among the women in the palace. Feeling threatened by Consort Yu interfering with her plans, Shun devised a cunning scheme. Unexpectedly, she found herself entangled in a complicated relationship with Ling and Fei. To further manipulate her sister, Shun enlisted the help of fortune-teller Tung Kat Hoi, who was seen as eccentric by the public but was privy to the true madness within the Forbidden City.

The primary characters in "Searchin' for My Polestar" are a group of 7 friends who first met in college as members of the "Sagittarius" astronomical observation club. While they joined the club as an excuse to spend time at the beach in summer and go skiing in winter, their only real stargazing experience occurred at a summer camp during their senior year. Despite exchanging vows of eternal friendship, their busy schedules over the years have caused them to drift apart. It has now been 3 years since that memorable summer under the stars. Will their friendship continue to weaken, or will they find a way to strengthen their bond once again? (Fuji TV)

The tale takes place in the early Minguo period within a concealed library. Fan Zhen holds the books passed down from his forebears in high regard and protects them fiercely. Fan Shu Han, Fan Zhen's adopted son, possesses an extraordinary memory and is infatuated with Lin Ruo Yun, the daughter of his father's long-time friend Lin Zheng Gong. Despite their decision to run away together, their plans are foiled, leading to a tragic outcome. Fan Yu Lian, Shu Han's older sister, is intelligent and sophisticated. She is compelled to marry Lin Shao Qing, Zheng Gong's eldest son, due to family obligations, even though her heart belongs to Fang Zi Wen, a scholar who frequents her family's library.

Taking place during the early Qing dynasty, the plot centers on the love affair between Dorgon and Empress Dowager Xiao Zhuang. (Wikipedia)

Lin Wan Ru's family runs a well-known bean shop and they lead a modest, yet fulfilling life. However, their peaceful existence is disrupted when Mr. Lin agrees to guarantee his cousin's loan and becomes the primary target of debt collectors. The family loses everything, including their shop and home. To repay the debt, Wan Ru takes a job at Ji Xiang Brothel. Gao Ming Hui, a compassionate and affluent young man who owns a prosperous timber business, empathizes with Wan Ru and falls in love with her. Despite his mother's strong disapproval, Ming Hui rescues Wan Ru from her difficult situation at the brothel and decides to marry her.

A tale of a dedicated couple striving to achieve their aspirations unfolds, showcasing the transformation and progress of Shenchuan over four decades. This period marked a significant era in history. Despite only completing junior high school, Wei Dong Xiao's courage and astuteness earned him the trust of influential figures such as Fan Qi Zheng and Fang Xiang Dong, allowing him to participate in key activities of the reform movement. Balancing a daytime job with relentless nighttime efforts, Wei Dong Xiao faces numerous challenges on his journey, finding solace in the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Queen Insu (1437-1504), spouse of King Deok Jong and daughter of Hanh Wak, who served as the second state councilor, was designated as Queen Insu beginning in the second year of Sung Jong's reign. She is regarded as one of the most remarkable stateswomen in the history of Joseon. The television series illustrates the tragic fates and relationships of three women. During the reign of King Dan Jong, the sixth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, Prince Soo Yang's son, Do Won, was wed to Han Jung. Distinct from other women of her time, Han Jung openly pursued her political ambitions. Ultimately, she opposed her mother-in-law, Queen Jung Hee, and maneuvered to place her son on the throne. The arrival of Deposed Queen Lady Yun escalated the tensions among the three women to a dramatic peak. (JTBC)