Asian dramas like
Hatsukoi To Marbles 10 Promises

This tale follows the lives of four childhood companions - Qing Qing, Ruo Mei, Cai Zhu, and Ma Jun. Ruo Mei harbors affection for Ma Jun, yet her feelings are unreciprocated. Qing Qing and Cai Zhu have been romantically involved for a few years, but encounter difficulties when Cai Zhu's biological mother resurfaces. Disapproving of Qing Qing, she endeavors to sabotage their relationship.

Jiang Mei Shan and Tian Chuan have been close friends since they were in third grade cram school. Despite facing many obstacles that prevented them from confessing their feelings, they managed to maintain a strong bond for five years. Eventually, they took a bold step to confess their love for each other, transitioning from friends to lovers. As a new couple, they encountered typical challenges faced by young pairs, such as dealing with jealousy, past relationships, and unwanted attention.

Seven siblings, orphaned and bound by a bond stronger than that of biological relatives, are juxtaposed with a family related by blood that is fracturing due to its own avarice, prompting a reflection on the true essence of family and happiness. The narrative primarily follows Jang Ha Bin/Kim Baek Won, a girl who becomes a police officer, and Do Young, a boy who pursues a career as a prosecutor. He finds himself falling in love with her once more after she previously shattered his heart. (MBC, DramaWiki)

Childhood friends Li Tao and Zhang Sheng form a strong bond through tennis, supporting each other against their families' disapproval. Zhang Sheng backs Li Tao's tennis ambitions, while Li Tao encourages her when she faces a career-threatening injury. Overcoming obstacles, they fall in love. Wei Chang, Zhang Sheng's loyal protector, and Fu Meng Meng, who harbors feelings for him, also pursue their dreams and love fearlessly. Despite facing challenges, these youngsters mature with determination and courage. ~

Having grown up together, Bai Qian Rui and Xin Hai Jing never considered each other as anything more than friends. Therefore, it was not surprising when Hai Xing asked Qian Rui to assist the volleyball team, Qian Rui attempted various excuses to avoid it. He was more focused on pursuing a relationship with the lovely Jia Kai Lin rather than working hard with his close friend. However, joining the team turned out to be the catalyst they needed to transition their longstanding friendship into something deeper.

Following a breakup with her boyfriend, Koyori sought solace at the home of her longtime friend Hijiri. Unexpectedly, she ended up spending the night with him after drowning her sorrows in alcohol. Hijiri confessed his love for her, leaving Koyori conflicted about their long-standing friendship. The situation is delicate as she faces the risk of losing everything if their relationship doesn't work out. Adding to the complexity, her ex-boyfriend expresses a desire to reconcile. Koyori must make a decision before it's too late. (Kodansha.us)

Haru once realized his dream but eventually abandoned it. Now living in Nagoya, his hometown, he harbors a deep mistrust of others and lacks a clear sense of purpose. One night, on his way to work, he unexpectedly encounters his childhood friend Mako on the last train of the evening after 15 years apart. Mako used to look up to Haru, prompting him to fabricate a series of small lies to live up to her expectations. As Haru reconnects with Mako, his emotions start to shift, but what will become of this love founded on deceit?

In the unique tale of two close friends discovering love, The Essence of My Life is a charming and humorous story about a pair seeking their ideal partners. With intermittent musical interludes, this cheerful production showcases singing and dancing as it narrates the journey of two perfectionists who fail to see each other's potential. Eun Young and Gyung Soo cross paths in their early twenties during a local election campaign. Despite being complete opposites in personality, aspirations, and demeanor, they clash and go their separate ways. Fast forward 12 years, they are now in their thirties, still seemingly different in every aspect except their shared goal of finding true love. As friends, they decide to assist each other in this pursuit. A contemporary comedy revolving around love, marriage, and societal expectations, Bean Chaff poses the question: can two individuals who never envisioned a romantic future together finally mature and grasp the essence of love?

Goo Hae Ra, an aspiring artist, is on a quest for fame. She hopes to share her late father's music but encounters several challenges along the way. Hae Ra then teams up with twin brothers as they pursue their dreams of stardom on the musical contest "Superstar K2."

Cha Ki Joon is a highly educated young man who embarks on his career with an impressive entry-level position at a major company. However, he finds himself dissatisfied with his life. In a spontaneous decision, Ki Joon chooses to resign from his job and launch a new venture alongside his childhood friends, Yoon So Dam and Go Tae Ra. So Dam has been juggling various part-time positions while pursuing her dream of becoming an illustrator. Tae Ra, a former competitive cyclist, opts to join Ki Joon in his entrepreneurial endeavor, which involves creating rickshaws of all things. As the trio navigates the challenges of adulthood, evolving friendships, and emerging romantic connections, can their unconventional business thrive?

Ryo, a former professional boxer, transitions into a debt collector for a loan shark. He was raised in an orphanage in Okinawa Prefecture alongside Haru, Natsumi, an aspiring actress, and two others. One of them is now a lawyer who has helped Ryo out of trouble, while the other was fortunate enough to be adopted by a wealthy family. Haru, also adopted, has never ventured beyond the island where she was raised. After her adoptive mother passes away, she decides to travel to Tokyo in search of their old group. Unfamiliar with the ways of the modern city, she narrowly avoids falling victim to the sex industry upon arriving in Tokyo, but Ryo intervenes just in time to rescue her.

Kang Bo Ram is a dedicated public servant employed in Ulsan's tourism sector. She takes on the responsibility of organizing the 'Go Bok Soo' Song Festival and sets out to identify a worthy contestant for the grand prize. Bo Ram reconnects with her childhood friend Kyung Seok, who has returned to intervene in his parents' divorce. Together, they formulate a strategy to assist Kyung Seok's father in participating in the song festival. (K-Plus)

The narrative follows the lives of Liu Su Zhen, Wang Guo Sheng, and Zhou Hong Wei, who were classmates during their middle school years in the early 1980s. Wang Guo Sheng and Zhou Hong Wei share a close friendship, but they both develop feelings for Liu Su Zhen. The plot unfolds with a sequence of events that occur after Liu Su Zhen unintentionally marries Wang Guo Sheng.

A tale of a compassionate woman with multiple personas and her dedicated partner. Hai Can, the CEO of a entertainment firm, comes back from overseas and unexpectedly meets Yu Tong, a school teacher. A childhood friend of his, Yu Tong's hand scar confirms her identity. As Hai Can tries to bond with her, he uncovers her two alternate personas - a skilled martial artist named Ah Jian and a stunning woman named Kaili. Their relationship grows closer, but complications arise due to Hai Can's former girlfriend and Yu Tong's other personalities vying for control.

A tale of renewal and transformation chronicles the journey of a humble family. Following a 14-year stint in prison, Jian Leng embarks on a quest to reconstruct his life and unexpectedly finds solace in a woman who runs an art gallery, carrying emotional scars from her past marriage. Leng Jian's wife was tragically assaulted 14 years earlier, leading him to retaliate against the perpetrator, leaving the man paralyzed for life. As a consequence, Leng Jian receives an 18-year prison sentence for his actions. Upon his early release after serving 14 years, Leng Jian is disheartened to find that neither his estranged younger sister Leng Shan nor his son Leng Tianyou, whom he has never met, are there to greet him. Leng Shan's close friend Yuan Shan is the proprietor of an art gallery and is in a respectful yet passionless marriage with her wealthy husband Cai Yonghao. Their relationship deteriorates due to the interference of a third party. In aiding Yuan Shan in finding love once more, Leng Jian discovers himself developing feelings for her, and the two wounded souls embark on a journey of healing through each other's companionship.

This story follows three close friends on a quest to locate a tree that produces bread, which they believe belongs to them. The concept of 'bread' in this context could represent material wealth, vanity, or even be symbolic. These three friends first met at the age of 13 while playing volleyball, and their bond grew as they navigated the challenges and joys of growing up together. Throughout their journey, they experienced the complexities of first love, emotional highs and lows, and the challenges of loving and being loved. Each friend shared their unique perspectives on relationships, with discussions ranging from the allure of bad boys to the importance of finding a partner who brings happiness. Ultimately, the story delves into the age-old dilemma faced by women - choosing between material comfort ('bread') and emotional fulfillment through love.

Wu Yu Chao, a university graduate working in an office, decided to move into a shared house in Tiantongyuan to be closer to his crush, Lu XiaoYan, from college. In this new living arrangement, he encountered a diverse group of young individuals, each with their own unique stories. One of them is Liu Yi Dong, a 20-year-old rebellious high school graduate whose mother, Sister Lan, and stepfather moved in with her after their divorce. Another resident is ZhangJian, a 26-year-old real estate agent who struggles with the fast-paced life in Beijing due to his poor performance. Qin Yun Juan, 23, works as a KTV waiter and dreams of bringing her daughter from her hometown to live with her. Tang Xiao Rou, 27, is an aspiring internet celebrity who hopes to make a living through live streaming. Despite their differences, these six individuals bond over a shared experience of standing up against a difficult landlord situation. Through this common struggle, they develop trust, friendship, and work together towards achieving their desired lives and dreams. The shared house becomes a microcosm of urban youth, where emotions run high, decisions are made, and life goes on for those who choose to stay.

A heart transplant connects the lives of Xia Yuan Xing, a talented musician from Chongqing, with Luo Jia Heng, a wealthy man from Singapore. After receiving Xia Yuan Xing's heart, Luo Jia Heng found himself drawn back to Chongqing, where he encountered Xia Yuan Xing's old friends: Yu Xiao Xiao, Dai Ying Xi, and Cheng Feng Ming. The four of them embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and tears.

A culinary competition program that travels between Singapore and Hong Kong features a group of contestants vying to win their own restaurant. The show also explores a romantic entanglement involving Gai Zai, Mandy, Ling Mong, and Oh Sieu.

A young woman who has had an easy life experiences a romantic setback that motivates her to start a new career at a law firm, a field she is unfamiliar with. This romantic comedy follows her journey as she navigates love and work, discovering the true value of a person as she strives to become a capable and respected woman. Reika Nanjo, with her radiant beauty, has always believed that physical appearance is a woman's most important asset. After her engagement to Shinichiro Natsume is unexpectedly called off, she rushes back to Japan to confront him. Unable to meet with him at his law office without an appointment, she disguises herself as a job applicant and lands a position at the firm. Her supervisor, Kosuke Nabeshima, is a unique and unconventional lawyer who stands out from the elite crowd.

Tanaka Chiharu works as a temporary staff member at a travel agency and is currently 34 years old. She hasn't been in a relationship for more than five years and is feeling anxious about not being able to find a partner, especially as her friends of similar age are all getting married. On the other hand, Kirishima Haruko, a successful landscape architect, is 44 years old and has been involved in a long-term affair with her boss. Due to this, she has taken a more long-term approach to romance and has resigned herself to not getting married. Despite their age and personality differences, Chiharu and Haruko meet for the first time at Chiharu's sister's wedding and immediately hit it off. They decide to live together at Haruko's place, leading to a delightful and sometimes turbulent interaction between them. While they often argue, they also provide each other with much-needed support. Kudo Junpei, a 32-year-old part-time employee at a flower shop, is a kind-hearted and sensitive individual who is hesitant when it comes to love. He lacks the confidence to marry and take care of someone else, let alone a whole family.

Persuading men to purchase luxury items for her, Jang Shin Young trades these items for money to support herself and her incarcerated mother. One of these men, Kwon Hae Hyo, uses his friend's funds to buy Jang luxury goods. Upon discovering this, his friend, Jung Sun Kyung, is determined to locate the culprit. Jung, a dedicated college professor who works as a milk delivery person in the mornings to make ends meet, is shaken by the jokes played by her student Lee Ji Hoon, who initially dislikes her. Surprisingly, Lee gradually develops feelings for Jung, while Jang falls for Lee's wealthy older brother, Jung Bo Suhk. Jung Bo Suhk, a divorced playboy with a teenage daughter, eventually wins Jang's heart with his true self. Despite facing challenges such as age and class differences, the sons of the Seine Hotel president, Jung Bo Suhk and Lee Ji Hoon, both fall for Jang Shin Young and Jung Sun Kyung. In a society plagued by widening wealth gaps, Jang Shin Young and Jung Sun Kyung lean on each other during tough times to blossom into elegant women.

The narrative revolves around the intertwining tales of love and friendship experienced by four young individuals, set against a backdrop of both reality and romance. Kim Yoon Seo finds herself torn between her ideal partner, Ji Won, and her long-time friend, Kang Hyuk, who has been in her life for a decade. However, Min Yong is already committed to Chae Yi Yun.

Da Hui, a 19-year-old, grew up in challenging circumstances alongside his older brother Da En, who is 20 years old but has the intellectual capacity of a 10-year-old. After losing their parents, they have relied on their grandmother for support. Da Hui had a simple love with his childhood friend Lu Wei Wei, but their relationship ended due to fate, leaving them with regrets.

Sen, a Malaysian native, migrated to Taiwan for educational purposes where he crossed paths with Xin Yan. Their romance took an unexpected turn when Xin Yan decided to pursue studies overseas. Years later, the duo reunites on a familiar street, their appearances altered by time but their emotions unchanged. The narrative revolves around the events unfolding on Fujin Street involving the couple and their circle of friends, reflecting relatable experiences encountered by many.

The show is characterized by its upbeat portrayal of the lives of its female protagonists, along with their relatives and companions.

Chinese Partner follows the story of three close male friends as they navigate the transition from inexperienced university students in the 1990s to prominent figures in the field of IT. As they strive towards their shared ambitions, their loyalty to each other and their aspirations is put to the test.

The primary characters consist of two close male companions, Jerry and Hui Lok, along with their female acquaintance, Cherie. The narrative focuses on their interactions with others, such as Jenny and Kei Kei, as well as among themselves.

A tale about deceit impacting two close friends in the workplace as they navigate their past and new romantic opportunities. Shu Fei and Lin Fei share a bond similar to that of sisters. During their time in college, Lin Fei caught the attention of their senior Qi Ran, although she did not reciprocate his feelings. Wanting to spare Qi Ran from heartache, Shu Fei pretended to be Lin Fei in their correspondence. After graduation, both friends landed jobs at a television shopping network. Shu Fei's misunderstanding with Director Lan Tian led her to believe he was inappropriate, while she also discovered that Qi Ran was their boss, causing tension as he focused his attention on Lin Fei. Shu Fei chose to concentrate on work and grew closer to Lan Tian. Meanwhile, Lin Fei remained dedicated to her job and seized an opportunity stemming from Shu Fei's lie.

Yeo Bin experienced a dream where Young Jae professed his feelings for her while giving someone a piggyback ride, leaving her puzzled by its vividness. (Youtube)

Since birth, Wu Pei Pei and Li Yu Xuan have been in constant competition with each other. Raised as neighbors, their parents always compared them. Despite their fathers' rivalry, Pei Pei and Yu Xuan managed to form a secret friendship until a tragic event tore them apart. Now adults, they continue to live side by side but struggle to move past the past incident that drove them apart. With their fathers still pitting them against each other, Pei Pei and Yu Xuan maintain their competitive spirit, pushing each other to new heights. Despite their ongoing rivalry, there is a hidden bond between them that could bring them together. Can they set aside their differences and let love prevail, or will their rivalry keep them apart forever?

Oh Hye Seong, who was skilled at skipping stones during his childhood, had a deep affection for Choi Eom Ji. As friends from a young age, Eom Ji brought warmth to Hye Seong's life. A decade later, Hye Seong has become a professional baseball player and encounters Eom Ji once more. She is now in a relationship with another childhood friend, Ma DongTa. One day, Hye Seong conceals an injury he sustained as a pitcher and manages to throw a flawless game. Following that performance, he mysteriously vanishes. Years later, Hye Seong reappears alongside other baseball players, each with their own melancholic tales, often regarded as misfits. They are collectively referred to as "Kyongpyoii Woeinjudan."

Lee Jin Soo achieved great success after penning numerous thriller novels, earning a reputation as a skilled author. He is employed by Seo Eun Young, the head of the largest publishing house in Korea, and shares a long-standing friendship with her. Jin Soo boasts a significant fan base, particularly among women, and appears to be an ideal partner for anyone. However, what remains hidden from everyone is his quirky and sardonic nature, his multitude of unusual habits, and a deep-seated secret. The person tasked with managing his eccentricities is his secretary, Kang Seung Yeon, who pleaded for this position to advance her career beyond her average capabilities. Additionally, the situation is complicated by the return of Han Ji Won, Eun Young's former fiancé, whom she cannot stand. Ji Won is determined to win Eun Young back, but her affections are focused on Jin Soo.

The bond between two friends who reside far apart from each other is characterized by their ability to offer comfort in times of need, resulting in a connection that is rich in love yet fraught with challenges. (WikiDrama)

The story revolves around the decade-long connection between Yoon Seok Hyun and Joo Yeol Mae, marked by numerous breakups and reconciliations throughout their time together. Frustrated and seeking affection in a different direction, Joo Yeol Mae begins to pursue Shin Ji Hoon, leaving Yoon Seok Hyun to watch with jealousy.

After the passing of Zhang Zi Jun's parents, she took on the role of older sister to her brother and sister. Despite facing numerous challenges, she displayed resilience and eventually achieved success as a businesswoman. (Wikipedia)

The Zhou family had high expectations of having a son, but were disheartened when Zhou Ji Wei was born as a girl, becoming the third daughter in the family. Due to being seen as a disappointment, she only received hand-me-downs from her older sisters. Despite feeling unloved by her own family, she found comfort in the love and care shown by her neighbor, Dai Nai Nai. It was through Dai Nai Nai that she met Dai Yao Qi, who she tried to bond with as a sister, even though he had never desired a sister. Through her efforts to be close to him as a sister, she gradually realized that her feelings for him were not sibling love, but something more.

During the early 2000s, Xie Qiao enrolls at Beiqing University, where He Xiao Zhou, the person she secretly admires, is a student. Qin Chuan, her childhood sweetheart who is studying overseas, has feelings for her but keeps them hidden while playfully teasing her. When Qian Xi, Xie Qiao's roommate, starts a relationship with He Xiao Zhou, Xie Qiao's unrequited love comes to an end. Qin Chuan returns home to start a business for her and encourages her to discover her life's purpose. Eventually, they end up together. As time passes, these young individuals embark on their own journeys in life, experiencing various challenges and triumphs. Although their paths diverge, the determination and vigor of their youth continue to propel them forward.

This year's drama resonated with Chinese audiences, focusing on themes such as housing prices, love, and marriage. The storyline revolved around a group of young individuals striving to achieve their dreams despite facing harsh realities. Ma Xiaodong, born in the 1980s, faced challenges after getting married and securing a bank loan to buy a house without informing his girlfriend, leading to a series of unfortunate events. Meanwhile, Liang Meili, a white-collar worker, struggled to sell an apartment to support her family amid financial difficulties. Through ups and downs, the characters navigated through work-related issues, personal differences, and parental expectations, all while seeking love, stability, and a place to call home. Ultimately, their perseverance and mutual support helped them overcome obstacles and find happiness in creating a warm and loving home.

The plot centers around three women in their forties: Ye Hong, a cashier at a supermarket, Du Xiao Ling, a lawyer, and Song Qing, who has recently returned from living abroad. Ye Hong, after divorcing her gambling-addicted ex-husband, moves into a room in a house owned by He Jing, a taxi driver who is also divorced. The situation becomes complicated when He Jing's ex-wife and Ye Hong's ex-husband both move in at the same time, leading to awkward interactions among the four residents. This drama addresses the prevalent issue of single middle-aged individuals, showcasing the perspectives of urban dwellers on marriage and relationships. It follows the journey of these women as they navigate their lives, pursue happiness, and demonstrate strength and resilience.

The narrative follows three young women navigating life in a bustling city, experiencing various stages of growth and development together.

Yu You Wei was unknowingly stripped of her wealthy heiress status and replaced by a different girl when she was young. With the assistance of Han Ming, she sets out to pursue her dream of sailing. Along the way, she faces numerous challenges, including uncovering the truth about her true identity.

Lin Fen Fen is striving to achieve her dream of becoming a singer, despite facing rejection in auditions. After a fortunate turn of events, she catches the attention of a company and embarks on her journey in idol training. Despite encountering challenges and putting in a lot of effort, Fen Fen perseveres in pursuit of her aspirations, forms new bonds, and finds love along the way.

The plot follows three young women with distinct personalities as they navigate their romantic relationships. Ai Ma is an aspiring actress facing challenges in her career, Niu Su Su excels as a sales consultant, and Li Zhi is a talented and attractive individual. By chance, the three women end up living together and form a strong bond of friendship. Their lives are intertwined with various male characters, including the dependable childhood friend Su Zhi Huan, the successful CEO Gao Li Sen, charming Tang Tang, reserved Li Ke Li, and carefree Jiang Mo Jie. Through the exploration of these diverse characters, the drama delves into the differing values and beliefs surrounding love among modern city dwellers, using the terms "Mary Sue" and "Jack Sue" to highlight the idealized nature of the characters.

A tale depicting the experiences of individuals from the 1990s generation, showcasing both moments of happiness and sadness. The story revolves around four characters who share a hidden secret. Following a high school incident, Luo Xi undergoes a transformation into a submissive and fragile individual upon entering university. Upon discovering that Luo Xi was the one who saved him in the past, Li Xin decides to assist her in reclaiming the lost part of herself. Despite facing awkward situations during their youth, each character harbors a hidden truth in their heart. When confronted with decisions regarding family, friendship, and love, what path will they choose?

A tale of young entrepreneurs from the post-90s generation. When a group of six individuals join forces, they rely on their own abilities rather than their privileged backgrounds to pursue their aspirations. Qiao Xi Man, a successful student in the US, decides to leave school against her mother's wishes in order to start a new business in China with her boyfriend, Hao Fan, and Song Shang Ji. Despite fitting the stereotype of a wealthy young person, Song Shang Ji is willing to make sacrifices for his dreams, even if it means facing disapproval from his family. With a talent for programming, he is determined and confident in his pursuit of success.

A tale of a demon prince who loses his royal position and is appointed as a constable. Teaming up with his lover, companion, and ally, he fights against evil to uphold justice. During a turbulent era ruled by an ailing and feeble King, his sons scheme to seize the throne. The 7th Prince Xun Yan stays away from palace intrigues. Speculations circulate that he is the offspring of a demon and despite his exceptional talents, he faces rejection due to his heritage and lives recklessly. When Xun Yan accidentally harms the Crown Prince while saving the 9th Princess, the King removes his title and assigns him as a constable in Jinyuan County. In a brothel, a man dies mysteriously in Ru Yue's chambers. Xun Yan utilizes his extraordinary powers to uncover the true culprit. Forming new friendships, he embarks on a journey of solving crimes, all while a palace conspiracy unfolds.