Asian dramas like
Gunman In Joseon

Hong Gil Dong was the son of a prominent minister born out of wedlock. A local monk took him in and instructed him in martial arts. Driven by a desire to combat the societal injustices that separated nobles from commoners—where the former enjoyed privileges due solely to their lineage—Hong Gil Dong became a fighter for change. Meanwhile, the female lead, Heo Yi Nok, had recently returned to Korea from China alongside her grandfather. They made their living by showcasing performances and selling their distinctive medicines in the market. Lee Chang Hwi had been raised with the belief that he was the legitimate heir to the throne, which had been seized by his half-brother. Having just returned from exile in China, he was scheming to topple the emperor. The three characters found themselves caught in a web of love, animosity, loyalty, and treachery, with only one faction destined to prevail.

Prince Yi In, who was taken captive by the Qing Dynasty, faces betrayal from his own brother, King Yi Seon, whom he once trusted. Despite his emotional turmoil, Yi In finds solace in a mysterious baduk player who captures his interest. As he rises to power, Yi In struggles with his emotional vulnerability. Kang Hui Su, a talented baduk player, falls in love with him but later becomes a spy with a mission to seek vengeance against the king.

On the eve of the 1911 Revolution, Duan Muhai is getting ready for the fire festival at his Nanshan Manor. Duan Muhai, a wealthy man known for his questionable methods of acquiring wealth, has a favorite daughter named Aiyue. Aiyue stands out from the rest of the family for her intelligence, empathy, and clear moral values. Aiyue's servant A Ci is a carefree individual who enjoys dancing with a bamboo pole, smoking, and singing folk songs. During the annual fire festival, two young men named Liu Bo'en and Long Chulai arrive and meet Aiyue and A Ci. Aiyue starts to develop feelings for Bo'en but struggles to express them due to her pride. A Ci, who is deeply in love with Bo'en, tries to take advantage of the situation. Long Chulai admires Aiyue from afar but keeps his feelings hidden due to his insecurities about his appearance. As the 1911 Revolution unfolds and Duan Muhai's family faces hardships, Bo'en is sent to Beijing, and Aiyue is forced into a childhood marriage arrangement and later sold to an opium lord by her heartless husband. However, the ruthless Wang Kun is intrigued by Aiyue's Sandao tea and decides to support her in establishing a tea garden.

The series revolves around the challenges faced by the main character as she is compelled into a marriage with a high-ranking official of the Kuomintang, also known as the National party.

The plot follows Du Yu Lou, who runs a tea shop called "Shenchang" and is unexpectedly promoted to head after his brother's tragic death

Feng Zhi Wei, the disfavored daughter of the Qiu Family, is forced to escape under unfortunate circumstances. In debt to the 6th prince Ning Yi, Zhi Wei disguises herself as a man to enroll in the prestigious Qingming Academy and becomes the top scholar to the Emperor. She remains loyal and truthful to the ruling Emperor amidst the power struggle among the princes, all while developing feelings for Ning Yi as he delves into his past and seeks vengeance for his loved ones. Despite their genuine love, can they navigate through the deceitful plots and numerous obstacles in their path? Based on the book "Huang Quan" by Tianxia Guiyuan.

During the early Republican era in Shanghai, a city divided by foreign-controlled areas and high levels of crime, Wu Qian decides to participate in a risky contest in order to help his friend's grandmother who is unwell. This decision leads him to become entangled in a dangerous conflict between foreign forces and local law enforcement. Along the way, he crosses paths with He Hong Yi, a dedicated activist, and decides to join her in her fight against the oppressive regime. As tensions escalate, the two find themselves involved in a risky struggle for the future of the city.

Set in the Joseon Dynasty, Yong roamed the marketplace as a troublemaker by day, but transformed into a thief at night, targeting corrupt officials to aid the impoverished

Luo Ai Lian, the kind-hearted firstborn of the Luo family, faces a sudden calamity that strips her of her wealth and throws her into poverty. Through perseverance and struggles, she transforms into the skilled eldest daughter of the Shen Dan Qing escort agency, excelling in both literary arts and martial skills. Rising from the ruins, she sets out on a quest for vengeance against her adversaries. Her path becomes complicated when she crosses paths with General Xu, who is on a quest for a missing treasure. As they engage in a battle of wits and bravery, they form a bond of mutual support and embark on thrilling escapades.

At a bar, Sen from the Kuntai Group crosses paths with Ling Yi, a hostess, and their lives become intertwined. Through their interactions, Sen discovers Ling Yi's pain from being abandoned by her boyfriend after serving time for accidentally causing a death. Despite his usual emotional barriers, Sen finds himself genuinely attracted to this compassionate young woman. Eventually, Sen reveals to Ling Yi that he is an undercover police officer who has spent years infiltrating the Kuntai Group in search of evidence of their criminal activities. As their bond deepens amidst dangerous situations, they pledge to start anew together once their mission is complete. With Ling Yi's help, Sen gathers crucial information about the Kuntai Group's illicit dealings by getting close to Elena, Kun's wife, resulting in the arrest of Kun and Elena and the downfall of the criminal organization. However, during the operation, Tai, Kun's enigmatic younger brother and the most unpredictable member of the Chen family, goes missing, raising concerns for the authorities. Meanwhile, a sinister plot against Sen and Ling Yi begins to take shape in the shadows...

Chuno narrates the tale of Lee Dae Gil, a nobleman whose life takes a tragic turn when Won Ki Yoon, a slave, sets fire to his home and flees with his sister, Un Nyun, who harbors feelings for Dae Gil. Fueled by a thirst for vengeance, he endures the brutal realities of life on the streets and establishes himself as a slave hunter, determined to locate Un Nyun, his first and only love. Meanwhile, Song Tae Ha, a General of the Army, becomes a slave after being wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and finds himself evading Dae Gil's relentless chase. The two men become enmeshed in a love triangle involving Un Nyun, who has transitioned from being a runaway slave to Kim Hye Won, the daughter of a nobleman.

"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

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)

This drama revolves around the romantic relationship between King Jung Jong and Queen Dan Kyung, who was both crowned and ousted within a single week due to opposing political factions that influenced the king’s governance. As per historical accounts, following the queen's removal from the palace, the king would visit the outer royal pavilion daily, letting out a sigh as he looked towards a mountain in her direction. In response to this, she placed a red skirt, her favorite attire from her time in the palace, on a rock on the mountainside as a way to reassure him of her well-being and her enduring feelings for him.

In the story, Jang Hyun, a stoic individual, discovers a new sense of purpose in life when he crosses paths with the delightful Gil Chae

A thrilling drama unfolds in the 1920s under Japanese colonial rule, showcasing individuals fighting back after losing their jobs to provide for their loved ones and friends.

Taking place in the Joseon era, Ok Tae Yeong is a knowledgeable legal professional known for her intelligence, strong work ethic, and athleticism. She is always ready to assist others in challenging situations, earning her the affection of those around her. Despite her popularity, Ok Tae Yeong harbors a secret - her name, husband, and social standing are all fabricated. One day, she crosses paths with Cheon Seung Wi, a wandering storyteller who captivates audiences with his tales. Instantly smitten, Cheon Seung Wi decides to stay by Ok Tae Yeong's side, offering his unwavering support and affection.

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."

The narrative centers around a crown prince named Lee Sun, who battles the Pyeonsuhwe organization that wields total control over the kingdom and monopolizes the water supply through privatization. This drama weaves together elements of romance, action, and courtly intrigue as Crown Prince Lee Sun valiantly fights for the welfare of his people, while Han Ga Eun unexpectedly finds herself falling for him instead of seeking revenge for her father's execution at his hands. In “The Emperor: Owner of the Mask,” there are palace conspiracies related to the true authority behind the throne, along with a surprising twist when the prince swaps identities with a commoner. Ultimately, the central theme of the series is love, which permeates the romance between the prince and his beloved, as well as their shared compassion for the nation and its citizens. (MBC)

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.

Lee Jung Hyun is charged with the attempted murder of his girlfriend Oh Soo Ah's father. He flees and becomes a wanted man. Eventually, he comes back under a different identity and looks for vengeance. Oh Soo Ah, the heir to the company "SL Electronic," has been supported throughout the years by Shin Hyun Tae, especially while her father remains in a coma.

In the chaotic era of Joseon, a captivating story of intertwined destinies emerges, where the previously clear waters of the Gyeonggang River have become a murky flow. Jang Si Yul, a man who conceals his history to navigate life as a gangster, Choi Eun, a quick-witted and principled individual, and Jung Cheon, an idealist aiming to be an upright official, find their fates connected in a realm where justice is rare and survival requires sacrifices.

Eun Seo Yeon is known for her welcoming and amiable personality. She operates a small business specializing in creating and selling cosmetics online, in addition to her role as a staff member at a makeup salon. In the past, she had a close relationship with Kang Baek San and her parents. However, she discovers that Kang Baek San was involved in a tragic event that affected her family. Motivated by a desire for revenge, she devises a plan to marry Kang Tae Poong, who happens to be Kang Baek San's son.

During the 18th century in Korea, Prince Yi San is haunted by his father's murder and aims to become a compassionate ruler who reforms the kingdom's laws. He is next in line to the throne after his harsh grandfather, the current king, passes away. At court, he meets Sung Deok Im, a spirited and intelligent young woman. While Yi San falls in love with her and proposes she become his concubine, Sung Deok Im struggles with the limitations and duties of royal life. As their love grows, she sees the potential for positive change in the kingdom through their relationship.

The Northern Wei Dynasty was destroyed overnight, leaving Princess Feng Xin Er as an orphan. Despite narrowly escaping death, she finds herself in enemy territory where she takes on the identity of Li Wei Young, the Prime Minister's daughter. Enduring numerous challenges, she ultimately uses her intelligence and commitment to justice to rise as a formidable figure and find love.

Kang Chil Woo served as an unremarkable police officer in the Joseon period. After losing his parents in a violent attack, his primary objective became to remain inconspicuous for his own safety. Nevertheless, the murder of his sister dramatically altered his perspective on life. In his quest for vengeance, he transformed into an assassin, taking it upon himself to deliver justice to wrongdoers.

Following the passing of her parents, Joo Ah Ran schemes to bring down the family responsible for her loss. She charms and weds her adversary's son, Shin Hyun Woo, who eventually uncovers her intentions. After undergoing plastic surgery due to injuries from a car accident, he resolves to take his own revenge on her.

Gu Han Sen, a prominent figure in Shanghai, took in two sons during the early years of the Republic of China - Liao Si Cheng and Fang Tian Yi. The two adopted sons, along with Gu Han Sen's daughter Ting Gu, grew up together like true siblings. Fang Tian Yi, a kind and honest young man, valued their sibling bond above all else. Despite his unrequited love for Ting Gu, he kept his feelings hidden after learning of her feelings for Liao Si Cheng. The trio bravely fought against the Japanese invasion and played a crucial role in the War of Liberation. Gu Han Sen, aware of his daughter's feelings for Liao Si Cheng, attempted to arrange their marriage, but Liao Si Cheng prioritized his duties over personal matters. He joined the BIS, with Ting Gu and Fang Tian Yi following suit. Years later, they were unknowingly involved in a conspiracy while intercepting Qing treasures as part of a team led by Liao Si Cheng.

A clandestine group referred to as "Golden Cross" exerts significant influence over the Korean economy and market through its extensive connections and wealth. Prosecutor Kang Do-yoon becomes embroiled in their activities when one of their schemes leads to the murder of his cherished sister, for which his father is subsequently wrongfully accused. Determined to avenge his sister, Do-yoon sets his sights on Seo Dong-ha, the influential figure behind the organization. However, his mission becomes complicated when he discovers that Seo is the father of the woman he loves, his colleague Seo Yi-re. Yi-re is an honorable prosecutor dedicated to justice; she has always held her father in high regard, and her world is upended when she uncovers his sinister side. At the same time, Seo mentors businessman Michael Jang, whose insatiable ambition soon drives him to compete with Seo for supremacy. This sets the stage for a confrontation involving power, wealth, and personal conflicts.

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 takes place in historic Shanghai during the 1920s. After completing her education overseas, a young woman returns to China and becomes immersed in the societal changes happening around her. She crosses paths with a wealthy businessman from Shanghai and they develop romantic feelings for each other. The woman is a talented opera performer, but their love faces obstacles when various antagonists try to sabotage their relationship.

During the era of Emperor Tai Zong, known as the period of Prosperity of Zhenguan, a former tailor named An is falsely accused and imprisoned. To protect her daughter Liu Li, An entrusts her to a trusted acquaintance in the palace. Raised within the palace walls, Liu Li becomes a skilled medical officer specializing in preventing epidemics, as well as inheriting her mother's talent for clothing design. Facing challenges from envious individuals, Liu Li encounters Pei Xing Jian, a highly capable individual who aids her in escaping danger. As they delve into uncovering the truth behind An's case, Liu Li and Pei Xing Jian form a strong bond and develop feelings for each other while working together.

The narrative follows Ok Nyeo, a gifted young woman who grows up in prison and acquires remarkable abilities and insight through her interactions with exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds. She emerges as an advocate for the downtrodden peasant class and sets out on a quest to discover her rightful place within the caste hierarchy. Through Ok Nyeo's experiences, this television miniseries highlights Joseon’s esteemed tradition of human rights legislation, which she strives to implement across the realm. (MBC)

Sailing enthusiast Lin Tian Long leads a life of relative comfort, until his wedding day when he is falsely accused of treason and imprisoned in the depths of Prison Number 7. Believed to be deceased by the world, except for one individual, Tian Long finds solace in the company of a fellow inmate who was once a teacher to the Emperor and has been incarcerated for 16 years. Nearly two decades later, Tian Long escapes from captivity, armed with knowledge gained during his imprisonment, seeking vengeance on the three men responsible for his wrongful incarceration. This narrative is inspired by Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo."

Yue Fei started his career from humble beginnings and eventually became a renowned military leader who defended Southern Song against northern Jin invaders. Unfortunately, he was unjustly executed by his own government. General Yue Fei's name continues to be associated with the virtue of "loyalty" in Chinese culture.

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.

Wong Fei Hung, a renowned figure of his era, is both a skilled martial artist and a revered hero. As a doctor at Po Chi Lam, a clinic in Canton, he has rescued numerous individuals, yet he is compelled to utilize his combat skills to protect the community.

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

In order to seek justice for her family, the stunning and elegant Wen Yu Nong decided to become a spy known for her skill in disguises. To achieve her goal of revenge, she must utilize her talents to impersonate another person as she reconnects with the man she once had feelings for.

Taking place during the Republican era, rural girl Wan Xin was offered to the frail Wu Hui Xiang as a servant to protect against misfortune. Despite her humble position, Wan Xin manages to impress the matriarch with her wit and assists in safeguarding the Wu family from their power-hungry sons and relatives.

During the 1930s in Chengdu, the Gao family held significant power and influence as a feudalistic household. Jue Xin, the eldest grandson, faced pressure to abandon his love for cousin Mei Fen and marry Rui Jue, a woman chosen by his parents. Following his father's passing, Jue Xin was tasked with continuing the family business as per tradition, a challenging responsibility that stirred up jealousy and deceit among other family members. Despite his grandfather's attempts to arrange a marriage with Mr. Feng's granddaughter, Jue Min defied expectations by running away. Meanwhile, Jue Hui and servant girl Ming Feng, who shared a deep connection from childhood, found themselves torn apart when Grandfather decided to give Ming Feng to Mr. Feng as a concubine.

A young woman from a rural area decides to pursue a career in acting, starting from the bottom. She encounters a cynical and egotistical celebrity who eventually develops feelings for her. Jian Xi relocates from her small town to Beijing in search of her birth mother. Through a twist of fate, she becomes involved in the entertainment industry and must compete against other up-and-coming actresses for a shot at stardom. Along the way, she captures the heart of the conceited top actor Tang Fei with her natural charm and dedication to her craft.

The tale chronicles the events of the 20th century, depicting the struggles of the people amidst natural disasters and ongoing chaos. Hidden motives emerge, taking advantage of the turmoil for nefarious purposes. Small Lang Yang Yi, possessing the spirit of a dragon, becomes entangled in a treacherous battle in Shanghai due to a plague incident, where he encounters the Mayor Mo Xiaoyu and falls in love. Unbeknownst to many, Yang Yi also harbors a dark side, driven by a delusional quest for "longevity" that leads him to spread the plague artificially, profit from medicinal herb production, and orchestrate political assassinations and wars. His ultimate goal is to unleash the "six scourges" through blood sacrifices in order to ensure his own survival.

Yun Xiang, a follower of Yuntai, emerged from seclusion after fifteen years to seek vengeance for his slaughtered family. Despite his lack of martial arts prowess, he possessed remarkable intelligence. Along his journey, Yun Xiang befriended individuals who shared his air of mystery. Shu Ya Nan, a ward of Yun Xiang's mentor, possessed impressive martial arts skills and concealed many secrets. Jin Biao was a skilled swordsman with a strong sense of justice, while Su Ming Yu, concealed his abilities and had a unique talent for understanding various martial arts techniques. Through a series of revelations to uncover each other's hidden truths, Yun Xiang and his companions sought to determine their true allegiances. As they delved deeper into past tragedies, shocking secrets emerged, leading to a reevaluation of everything they knew, including Yuntai itself. Amidst deception, betrayal, and life-threatening challenges, Yun Xiang and his allies faced the daunting task of identifying their enemies and seeking justice, all while pursuing their quest for revenge. Would they prevail against the forces of evil or succumb to darkness in the end?

The traveling doctor Ye Ping An, caught up in a mysterious and long-standing case, makes her way to Chang'an. Suspected of using supernatural healing methods, she influences people's thoughts and instills fear, as the ambitious commoner magistrate Yuan Shao Cheng takes advantage of the situation to advance his own power. When a murder occurs in Chang'an, Ye Ping An is implicated, leaving the question of whether she is an innocent victim or a cunning mastermind seeking revenge. The initial step in her complex plan has already been revealed.

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.

At the age of 15, Sin Jeong Tae experiences the devastating loss of his father, who is killed by a Japanese soldier during the Japanese occupation of Shanghai in the 1930s. Rather than receiving justice, Jeong Tae is wrongfully blamed for his father's demise. He ultimately seeks retribution through his fighting skills in the dark alleys of Shanghai, honing his abilities to become the top fighter in the region.