Asian dramas like
Hot Stove League

Jang Geu Rae, once a talented Go player, faces difficulties after his aspiration to become a professional in the game falls short. He finds himself interning at One International, where he encounters another intern, An Yeong Yi. Together, they deal with the pressures of working under the strict Section Chief Oh Sang Shik and contend with the driven Jang Baek Ki. As Geu Rae adapts to the corporate environment, he makes an effort to preserve his sense of self.

In this romantic-comedy drama set in an office, a secretary characterized by her submissive and compliant nature encounters a boss who is entirely indifferent to others and shows no regard for their feelings. (KBS World)

After encountering numerous unsuccessful job interviews, Ho Won unexpectedly learns that she has only six months to live. Just when her situation appears bleak, she secures a job opportunity. Determined to seize control of her life, she undergoes a transformation into a bold and confident woman. This series resonates with young individuals grappling with a tough reality and limited prospects. Within the workplace depicted in the show, a cultural divide exists between the outspoken, youthful employees and the older staff who are apprehensive about impending layoffs. Simultaneously, the series highlights the importance of open dialogue and empathy as a way to bridge these gaps. (MBC)

Oh Yoon Seo is a well-known actress celebrated for her stunning looks, although her acting skills leave much to be desired. She becomes embroiled in a scandal involving the heir of a wealthy conglomerate, which leads to a significant downturn in her acting career. However, she learns that a renowned screenwriter is interested in casting her as the lead female in an upcoming drama series. The role requires her character to serve as a secretary to a lawyer. To prepare for this part, Oh Yoon Seo must work as a lawyer's secretary for several months. On the other hand, Kwon Jung Rok is an attorney at a prestigious law firm, known for his arrogance and lack of warmth. One day, his supervisor instructs him to allow Oh Yoon Seo to assist him as his secretary for three months. Although he is displeased with this arrangement, he has no choice but to comply.

Their initial meeting is a complete disaster, but their relationship gradually develops into something beautiful. Ji Xiang Kong, a well-known and attractive e-sports player, is adored by many fans. Qiu Ying, a tsundere live streamer, crosses paths with him during an international tournament in hopes of increasing her own popularity, unaware of his controversial reputation. Instead of assisting her, their connection ends up causing more harm. However, this setback ultimately leads Qiu Ying to discover her true passion and realize that Ji Xiang Kong is actually a misunderstood prodigy.

Xiao Chun Sheng, along with his companions Ye Guo Hua and Chen Hong Jun, were all raised in the same courtyard and come from military and government backgrounds

“Our Baseball” narrates the tale of a baseball squad consisting of everyday office employees. Park Jeong Hwa is set to portray a character who is on the hunt for employment and is the sole female member of the baseball team. (Soompi)

Experienced Engineer Choi Ban Seok works in the consumer electronics department at Hanmyung Electronics. Known for his calm demeanor, warm personality, and sense of humor, he is currently facing the biggest challenge of his 22-year career. In order to avoid potential layoffs, he decides to switch to the Personnel Department, despite being unfamiliar with its operations. The newly promoted Head of the Personnel Department, Dang Ja Young, is a dedicated worker aiming to become the company's first female executive. Initially unsure about Ban Seok joining her department, she soon discovers that working together brings unexpected changes to her life.

To combat crime and fulfill his aspiration of becoming a police officer, young Liu Zi Ming eagerly joined the Criminal Investigation Detachment of the Criminal Security Bureau. Initially finding the investigative work mundane and unexciting, he gradually adjusted his mindset with the help of his supervisor and collaborated with his colleague to solve cases. Through gaining experience and excelling in his role, Liu Zi Ming developed a profound understanding of the complexities of human nature. Now serving as a Captain, he fully comprehends the immense responsibility that comes with being a law enforcement officer, which he attributes to the unwavering guidance from his superior, the camaraderie of his fellow officers, and the changes in his personal life. His dedication to maintaining social order as a police officer is a source of pride for him.

Mo Siu Sze lives a typical married life with her husband Wong Kwok Leung, enduring mistreatment from her harsh mother-in-law Wong Chiu Wing Mui. One day, she comes across a flyer from "Cyndi Dance Studio," triggering memories of her high school days. Back then, she enjoyed writing and helped organize "MCLUB" with her peers Chu Lei, Law Fung Sin, Luk Yuen Chau, Chu LeI, and Leung Kam Yin. Despite their vow to stay close forever, over two decades have passed and they have drifted apart. When reality clashes with their dreams, nostalgia remains except for Fung Sin, who continues to pursue dancing. After Fung Sin is hospitalized, her friends reunite to support her and protect the "Cyndi Dance Studio" from their rival, Yung Dan Dan and her "D Fitness." As Siu Sze reconnects with her first love Yiu Chi Lun and Chu Lei confronts her past mistakes and motherhood, a mix of emotions resurface. Through these experiences, their lost vitality, courage, passion, and confidence are rekindled.

Before his wife passed away, Koichi Inoue, a 68-year-old man living alone, remains an active member of the rugby community. Koichi was a prominent player in the first national high school rugby championship held at Hanazono 50 years ago. Currently, he is involved in organizing the Tri-Osaka rugby event in collaboration with the Rugby World Cup Attraction Room at the city hall, initiated by his classmate Kato who is battling cancer. When Yuki Sakuragi, a newcomer to the event planning team with no knowledge of rugby, approaches Koichi for guidance, he dedicates himself to preparing for the event to uplift their ailing classmates. However, an unexpected obstacle arises when permission to use the grounds is denied for a mysterious reason. The future of the rugby event, imbued with Lagermans' sentiments, hangs in the balance.

Lee Joon Ki is an underappreciated actor who operates the Waikiki guesthouse

Centered around Beijing's successful bid for the 2022 Winter Olympics, the narrative centers on Chen Mian, a determined young woman aspiring to excel in short-track speed skating

Following the passing of his mother, Kitamura Taiga harbors negative feelings towards his father's intense focus on rally racing

Nemoto Kahoko, a 21-year-old university student, is inexperienced and heavily dependent on her mother, Izumi. Izumi takes care of waking Kahoko up and choosing her clothes every day, leaving Kahoko with no experience in household chores or driving. When Kahoko crosses paths with a young man who had a contrasting upbringing, she may have the opportunity to break free from her pampered lifestyle and learn how to become more self-reliant.

Hanai Ao is a renowned manga artist known for her captivating romance stories, earning admiration from fans for her dedication and achievements

A story that uncovers the concealed realities of the law against double jeopardy. As a child, Choi Do Hyun suffered from a heart condition, leading him to spend the majority of his early years in a hospital. Fortunately, he was given a miraculous opportunity for a heart transplant. Soon after the successful surgery, his father was charged with murder and subsequently sentenced to death. In pursuit of justice for his father, Do Hyun has now become a lawyer.

Ki Sun Gyeom, a former athlete who had to retire due to legal issues, crosses paths with Oh Mi Joo, a movie subtitle translator who feels their meeting is predestined. At the same time, Seo Dan Ah, the CEO of a sports agency and the legitimate heir to Seomyung Group, faces challenges related to gender bias while striving for her ambitions. Lee Young Hwa, an art student passionate about films, comes into her world. Is there a chance for romance to develop between these two couples?

The narrative explores the lives of various hospital professionals, including physical therapists, rehabilitation specialists, radiologists, nurses, and medical students. Ye Jae Wook serves as a physical therapist and also imparts his knowledge by teaching in the same discipline. He has recently taken on the role of team leader at the hospital. Woo Bo Young has been practicing as a physical therapist for three years. Although her aspiration was to become a poet, her family's financial struggles led her to pursue a career in physical therapy instead. Meanwhile, Shin Min Ho is currently a trainee, but he lacks interest in physical therapy. His academic performance fell short of medical school requirements, and under the influence of his parents, both of whom are doctors, he was compelled to study physical therapy.

“Hush” is a workplace drama centered on the lives of newspaper journalists and their daily challenges, dilemmas, and moral conflicts. Han Jun Hyeok, a seasoned reporter, initially took up journalism to seek justice, but now finds himself torn between his ideals and the realities of the profession. In addition to his career struggles, Han Jun Hyeok faces personal challenges as a husband and father. Lee Ji Su, an outspoken intern reporter, is unafraid to voice her opinions, even during interviews. Upon meeting Han Jun Hyeok, her mentor, she begins to aspire to become a genuine journalist.

Han Shang Yan, a renowned figure in the CTF cyber-security esports scene, had left the industry to establish his own esports organization, K&K, where he trained a group of young boys to become professional esports players. Following a defeat at a CTF competition, Han Shang Yan decided to take a break at an internet cafe. It was there that he encountered Tong Nian, a talented computer scientist and part-time online singer, who was helping out at the cafe. Tong Nian was immediately drawn to him, despite usually being confident and outgoing. As they were brought together by a series of coincidences and misunderstandings, Tong Nian found herself becoming more involved in K&K's activities and the world of professional esports. Through their interactions, Tong Nian also uncovered the truth behind Han Shang Yan's retirement from the esports world.

This drama explores the struggles and victories of contemporary women who prioritize their careers over conventional family expectations. Bae Ta Mi, a driven director at a leading web portal firm in her late 30s, reflects on the compromises she has made to achieve her career goals. At the same time, Park Mo Gun, a gifted composer in his 20s, meets Ta Mi at an arcade and is drawn to her intense competitiveness, leading to an extraordinary bond between the two.

Miyazawa Koichi is the head of a well-established small business specializing in producing tabi, a type of traditional Japanese socks. As the CEO of a company that has been passed down through four generations, he oversees around 20 employees. With a decline in demand for tabi, the business is facing financial challenges. To adapt to the changing market, Miyazawa is considering diversifying their product offerings by introducing a new line of running shoes. In order to ensure the company's survival, he is utilizing their expertise in crafting tabi to develop high-quality running shoes.

Haruka, a young woman whose father is a fisherman, experienced the devastating effects of the Tohoku earthquake, losing her home and many friends. Instead of returning to her hometown after a year in temporary housing, she decided to start a new life in Tokyo. While exploring the city, she discovered a lighting store that captured her interest. Haruka eventually began working at the store, helping customers find their own sources of light in life. Through this process, she also began to heal from the emotional wounds caused by the earthquake, finding her own inner light along the way.

In order to train the future members of the swimming team, the Swordfish Swimming Team has enlisted YIXIANG, LIN JUN, TAE, and LIU JIAN. Each of these four boys has unique personalities and challenges to overcome on their journey towards their dreams. The path to success is filled with obstacles - will they be able to achieve their goal of making it to the National Team?

With your support, I find the strength to persevere... I vow to never release this intertwined hand! This heartfelt tale showcases the bonds between parents and children, men and women, and all humanity. Against all odds, a woman who has been through three divorces raises three children from different fathers as a single mother. She navigates life's challenges without losing herself, facing obstacles daily in the enduring love shared between mother and child. (tvdrama-db.com)

Yoon Jae In is a young woman facing numerous challenges while aspiring to become a nurse. Her life takes a turn when she encounters Kim Young Kwang at the hospital, where he is being treated for injuries. Kim Young Kwang, a baseball player once celebrated for his exceptional hitting skills, has now been relegated to a secondary position. As they both strive to navigate their difficult circumstances, they discover a deep affection for one another.

After facing harassment in her advertising job, Hitsujitani Chiharu decides to leave and starts working at a temporary agency owned by her aunt

The setting of the narrative takes place at a made-up school that consistently sends numerous students to Tokyo University annually. Aoshi, a recent addition to the staff, takes on the role of coaching the school's baseball team. The team, consisting of only 5 members, has never achieved victory since its establishment. Aoshi and his players aim to secure a win at the Japan High School Baseball Championship.

Hosokawa Mitsuru serves as the president of Aoshima Manufacturing, a medium-sized precision instrument manufacturer facing challenges from the economic downturn and strong competition within the industry. Hosokawa joined Aoshima Manufacturing later in his career and was promoted to president by the company's founder and chairman, Aoshima Tsuyoshi, due to his skills and capabilities. However, his promotion over long-time executives at the company was met with criticism. Following his appointment, the company struggled due to the global recession stemming from a financial crisis. As president, Hosokawa is now tasked with ensuring the survival of Aoshima Manufacturing amidst these difficult circumstances. How will he navigate this significant challenge?

Seventeen-year-old high school student Natsuha Mai starts a part-time job at her uncle's batting cage center over summer break. It is there that she encounters a mysterious individual named Ito Tomohiro, a retired professional baseball player who believes he can identify people's concerns by observing their batting technique. Ito Tomohiro frequents the batting center every evening when Natsuha Mai is working, analyzing the batting practices of female customers and attempting to alleviate their worries through baseball principles.

At 40 years old, Tachibana Yuzuki has recently started working as a guide for mountain climbing. During her initial solo expedition to Mount Myoko and Mount Hiuchi, she encounters three women in her group: Yumi and Ritsuko, who are employed at a department store, and Mitsuko, who works at a welfare facility. Despite facing various challenges and personal issues, these novice climbers attempt to conquer the mountains under the guidance of Kijima, a younger colleague who is more experienced than Yuzuki. Extracted from the book "Yamaonna Nikki" penned by Minato Kanae.

Jiao Jia Ren was rescued by pediatrician Gu Li Feng during her childhood, and later decided to pursue the same career path. Recognizing her potential, Gu Li Feng, who is now the director of the leading children's hospital in the city, goes out of his way to bring her on board as a registrar. Working alongside a team of highly skilled specialists at her new job, Jiao Jia Ren finds herself no longer at the top of her game and puts in extra effort to bridge the gap in expertise. Together with her colleagues Deng Ziang, Gu Jia Ren, and Wang Hang, they encounter numerous challenges both in treating patients at the clinic and in their personal lives. Through these experiences, they grow and develop into capable professionals dedicated to the well-being of children.

Ru Wei and You Yan share a simple bond, confronting obstacles but remaining resolute in savoring life, even if it requires subsisting on instant noodles

Follows the development of South Korea's top multidisciplinary medical team and the narratives of the doctors within it. The characters, each facing their own pains and challenges, work collaboratively and slowly come to realize that healing others also involves healing themselves. (MBC)

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale strikes Seoul, hindering emergency assistance and throwing the city into disorder. In the midst of the crisis, dedicated surgeon Hae Sung puts everything on the line to care for the wounded, facing criticism from his profit-oriented hospital. Motivated by Hae Sung’s altruistic efforts, ambitious physician Ddol Mi and emerging talent Woo Jin join forces with him, as the three of them engage in perilous situations, resolute in their mission to save lives and reclaim the essence of being genuine doctors.

Zhu Yi, a survivor of blood cancer, established the "Blood

In the ruthless realm of the affluent and influential, a single mistake can lead to total devastation, a truth that Kang Hae Ra discovers through bitter experience. Once a diligent journalist, Hae Ra gained prominence after marrying a renowned celebrity and quickly became a leading influencer. However, a fabricated scandal tarnishes her reputation, igniting a desire for revenge. At the same time, Cha Min Joon, an accomplished lawyer with an unblemished record, dedicates himself to dismantling those who have destroyed his family. Kim Tae On, the heir to the FB Group, finds herself in a power struggle against her father, while detective Ku Eun Hye investigates a case that could either propel her career forward or cause it to collapse. As these individuals pursue both ambition and retribution, their lives intertwine, uncovering unsettling truths that profoundly affect them. Bound by their shared thirst for vengeance, Hae Ra and Min Joon are determined to eliminate their adversaries. Yet, will they be able to prevail against such formidable forces?

Qiu Dong Na has faced challenges in her post-graduation life. She has struggled in her career, dealing with mistreatment from colleagues and manipulation from her boss. After losing her job, she reluctantly joins an accounting firm co-owned by an old acquaintance, Gu Fei, and her former crush's stepmother, ChengFan Yang. Fei praises Dong Na's skills as a 'useful tool', noting her ability to tackle difficult tasks without hesitation. However, she finds working under Fei's unconventional leadership style to be challenging. Despite facing doubts and inequality due to her background, Dong Na finds support from her mother, Qiu Xiao Xia, as she navigates through work and personal issues.

This is a tale of adult romance centered around a woman in her forties who is a television producer. Focused solely on her retirement plans and uninterested in love, her life takes a turn when she relocates to a new town. There, she encounters a 46-year-old widower with a child, sparking a romantic connection between them.

Xu Qing You is a dedicated and focused woman holding a high-ranking position at a promising company. She is committed to her work and is in a long-term relationship with Fan Yun Xi, whom she has been with for a decade. Despite their plans to marry soon, their relationship hits a rough patch when she learns about his infidelity with another woman, leading her to call off the engagement. Distraught, she seeks solace in a bar where she encounters Mo Ling Ze, a man she had a brief and unpleasant encounter with earlier that day. In a drunken state, she engages in conversation with him and wakes up the next day in a hotel room with hazy memories of the previous night, assuming they had a one-night stand. To her surprise, she discovers that Mo Ling Ze has taken control of her company. As they are compelled to spend time together, they realize they share common interests and enjoy each other's company. Meanwhile, her ex-fiancé is determined to win back Xu Qing You's affections. Will she rekindle her past relationship, or is a new romance on the horizon for her?

"Ant Race's Challenge" narrates the tale of the hardships faced by college students from the "ant clan" who were born in the 1980s in Beijing

The story revolves around five elderly women residing on the same street who are brought together by a scam. Through shared experiences of joy and sorrow, they form a deep bond while seeking new purpose in their lives. Each woman, with her own unique background and personality, navigates the challenges of aging. Mei Yi, who runs a cafe, grapples with the loss of her son. The arrival of a new waitress, Xiao Xue, brings unexpected changes to her life. Teacher Song maintains a busy schedule, occasionally causing trouble for her daughter. Liu Da Fu's efforts to improve her son's life backfire, leading to his unhappiness. Hong Jie, a local resident, worries most about her children despite having everything she needs. Ai Lin, admired for her beauty, experiences profound loneliness. Their paths cross at a 'health lecture,' and as they unite to outsmart scammers, they form lasting friendships.

During her childhood, Hiromi endured mistreatment from her mother. As she matures, she is unable to be with the man she loves and is deceived by her close friend, Chikako. Hiromi chooses to raise a girl as her own child after Chikako abandons her, but the peace is disrupted when the daughter discovers Hiromi is not her biological mother.

Ayaka Miyata is employed at a company that produces stationery and is set to marry her coworker, Yuichi Hiyama. Despite this, she is hesitant to share the news with her mother, Harumi. Ayaka and Harumi have been estranged since a major disagreement they had when Ayaka was 20 years old. Harumi has always kept the identity of Ayaka's father a secret since she was a child. One day, Yuichi urges Ayaka to inform her mother, which leads to Harumi visiting the company the following day to evaluate whether Yuichi is a suitable partner. During the meeting, Yuichi and Harumi hit it off and she agrees to attend the wedding dress fitting. Unfortunately, on the day of the fitting, Harumi is rushed to the hospital after suffering from a sudden brain hemorrhage. Despite three months passing, she remains unconscious. Meanwhile, Ayaka discovers her mother's living will from a nurse, revealing that she had been exchanging diaries with her high school classmates. Using the diary as a guide, Ayaka travels to Kaga City in Ishikawa Prefecture, her mother's hometown. The revelations in the diary, filled with both lies and harsh truths, ultimately lead Ayaka to find true happiness.

A heartfelt drama that offers a hopeful perspective on bitterness, suffering, and healing within a family set against the stunning yet remote backdrop of Kangwon Province. After her husband's business fails, Jung Jae In finds herself with no choice but to return to her rural hometown with her two daughters, moving in with her father. [KoreanDramaOrg]

Mountain climbing expert Tachibana Yuzuki extends an invitation to women seeking companionship on the Yama Onna Nikki website to join her at the Mountain Festival to make new friends. Nishi Manami, attending the festival alone, strikes up a friendship with Kumada Yui and together they embark on a guided tour of Tsubakurodake, known as the Queen of the Northern Alps. A father in his sixties, his son in his thirties, and other women captivated by the guide Kijima also join the group, leading to various interpersonal dynamics for Yuzuki to observe. It is during this time that Yuzuki is surprised by an unexpected comment from Kijima.

In the popular multiplayer online game Glory, Ye Xiu is renowned for his exceptional skill and is considered a top player under the name Ye Qiu. After being forced out of his professional team, he now works as a manager at an Internet Cafe. When Glory introduces its tenth server, Ye Xiu dives back into the game with a decade of experience, memories of the past, and a self-made weapon. His journey to reclaim his former glory begins. Based on the web novel "The King's Avatar" by Hu Dielan.

In a tale set in a corporate environment, a manager faces disappointment after repeatedly missing out on a promotion, while dealing with a new intern. The duo endeavors to succeed in the financial industry of Shanghai. Wu Ke Zhi, a manager at a financial institution, possesses a sharp investment acumen but struggles due to a noticeable flaw. His rigid demeanor has hindered his ability to advance within the company and build strong relationships with his superiors. Consequently, he finds himself at a standstill in his career progression. Unexpectedly, a novice intern named Sun Yi Qiu joins Wu Ke Zhi's team. Despite lacking formal education and relevant experience, Sun Yi Qiu impresses during a crucial moment by persuading a key client to stay. This success grants Sun Yi Qiu the opportunity to complete his probation and sparks a compelling narrative of mentorship between the manager and intern.