Asian dramas like
In Between

Ai Ruo Man is a successful and self-sufficient professional with impressive credentials. Despite her qualifications, she has not been lucky in romantic relationships. Her former partner once mentioned that her demanding nature made it challenging for anyone to love her. On the other hand, Lu Fei, her close friend of 15 years, is a caring and laid-back individual who enjoys cooking and tending to his home and garden. While he is admired by many women, he has not been in many relationships and is not considering marriage at the moment. As they both enter their thirties, Ruo Man and Lu Fei are focused on personal growth and leading fulfilling lives in the bustling city. Will they discover love along the way? (CdramaBase)

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?

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.

Yeon Woo experienced a joyful childhood in a caring family. However, tragedy struck when her father died under mysterious circumstances, leading her mother to marry a man a decade younger than herself. Unfortunately, bad luck continued to plague them; her mother passed away from Wilson’s disease, and her stepfather absconded with their money. During these tough times, Min Ho, a long-time friend, consistently offered her support. Determined to bring her father’s murderer to justice, Min Ho chose to pursue a career in law enforcement. Meanwhile, Eun Sup returned to Korea with the intent of stopping his girlfriend, Soo Ah, from marrying someone else, but she firmly rejected him. To complicate matters further, his father dispatched individuals to his hotel to apprehend him. In his attempt to escape, he fell onto the subway tracks and lost consciousness. Yeon Woo witnessed the entire incident from the platform and came to his rescue. Afterward, Eun Sup requested to stay with her temporarily, as he had nowhere else to turn. Consequently, Yeon Woo, Min Ho, and Eun Sup ended up living together in the same household.

Kamiya Naoki is a member of the JC Arcs professional basketball team, known for his diminutive stature and tendency to falter under pressure. Despite his talent, he has yet to fully showcase his skills on the court since turning pro. Shirakawa Riko, a lively music college graduate with aspirations of becoming a professional violinist, faces challenges in breaking into the competitive music industry. Their paths collide when Riko discovers Naoki's lost cellphone on a bus, sparking an unexpected friendship that may blossom into something more.

Following their initial meeting, university student You Jia Qi and Meng He Ping began a romantic relationship. However, He Ping's mother strongly disapproved of their connection. Jia Qi decided to end things with He Ping, causing him to leave the country in anger. Meanwhile, Jia Qi's wealthy friend Ruan Zheng Dong was hospitalized after an accident. During a visit to Zheng Dong, Jia Qi unexpectedly crossed paths with He Ping once again. It was revealed that He Ping and Zheng Dong had been childhood friends. In order to cope with the emotional turmoil brought on by He Ping's return, Jia Qi started a relationship with Zheng Dong. Unfortunately, Zheng Dong's hospitalization due to stomach pains uncovered that he was in the final stage of gastric cancer. Knowing his time was limited, Zheng Dong chose to step aside and allow Jia Qi and He Ping to be together before quietly departing. Determined to find Zheng Dong, Jia Qi expressed her love for him upon reuniting. With little time left, Zheng Dong entrusted Jia Qi with the task of retrieving a valuable possession of his.

The plot revolves around a young woman named Mo Zhen who is taken advantage of by her former partner due to her compassionate nature. She ends up shouldering the responsibilities of his family and bailing out his business.

Yuan Hao, a prosperous entrepreneur, has maintained a distant relationship with his girlfriend Shan Shan. Shan Shan returns to China after a decade apart, hoping to marry Yuan Hao. Meanwhile, Yuan Hao crosses paths with Dr. Xiao Chun, who has just ended a relationship with her unfaithful partner. Despite starting off on the wrong foot, they gradually transition from foes to companions, supporting each other through their past emotional wounds and eventually developing romantic feelings for one another. (TVDb)

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.

Zuo Zai Jun and Zheng Lei were close friends and classmates in college. They share an 8-year-old step-daughter named Miao Miao. Miao Miao's mother, Ning Xiao Meng, was the woman of their dreams back in their university days. She disappeared to study in the United States 8 years ago and has now returned to Shanghai. Zai Jun struggles to accept her, but Xiao Meng works to mend their relationship. As Xiao Meng grows closer to Zheng Lei, it creates tension between the two men as they compete for her affection, leading to humorous situations. Over time, Xiao Meng's secrets about Miao Miao's birth and her disappearance come to light.

A tale of three contemporary women who face different challenges in their professional lives, leading to shifts in their relationships and quest for love. He Cai Hong is determined to find her ideal partner and ends up falling for the versatile professor Ji Huang, with whom she shares common interests. However, Cai Hong's mother disapproves of her daughter's choice as she is set on having Su Dong Lin, a wealthy man, as her future son-in-law. Meanwhile, Xia Feng loses his job, prompting Cai Hong to assist Han Qing. Due to a mix-up, Han Qing lands a job at Xia Feng's former company and excels in her new role, becoming a formidable rival for Cai Hong's friend Lili and straining the trio's friendship. Witnessing the consequences of the decisions made by those around her, Cai Hong ultimately makes her own choice, which garners the support of her loved ones.

Fresh out of medical school, Cheung Yat Kin is ready to start his career in neurosurgery. Known for his dedication and adherence to rules, Kin is respected and feared by his group of medical interns. Despite focusing solely on his work to save money for his paralyzed brother's dream of studying medicine abroad, Kin's life takes a turn when he meets Fan Chi Yu, a fellow doctor who admires him. When his brother tragically passes away, Kin is left adrift, with his interns and loved ones, including Yu, standing by his side. However, Kin faces another challenge when Yu falls seriously ill, leading to a difficult decision regarding a risky surgery. As a doctor, Kin supports Yu's choice, but as her partner, he struggles with his emotions...

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 kiss that day changed everything. This narrative starts with an unexpected kiss that reveals the sentiments of four men and women saying their goodbyes. It unfolds as a complex, bittersweet romantic fantasy involving four individuals who unite to discover true love. This series acts as a continuation of Moment, the flagship digital drama series from Studio Lululala. The feelings that men and women typically experience during dates are portrayed in an innovative manner with engaging characters. One couple has grown weary of one another, while another pair has separated after causing each other pain. Four distinct young adults come together to navigate the intricate challenges of their romantic entanglements. One couple aspires to embark on a new love journey, while the other envisions a flawless farewell. Will they achieve the conclusions they desire? (JTBC)

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.

During the summer in Beijing, a complex romantic situation arises involving Ke Lei, a young temporary worker performing various tasks, Su Yan, the nurse who Ke Lei has been harboring feelings for in secret, and Si Jia Yi, a lively young woman who is interested in Ke Lei.

While on her way back home from studying overseas, Lin Mei Ya encounters Ou Yang due to a mix-up. Planning to marry upon her arrival, she is shocked by her boyfriend's sudden betrayal. Overcoming heartbreak, she lands a job at Ou Yang's firm and their bond evolves from friendship to a source of support during tough times.

Back in 2008, Liu Wen Jing, a young woman from a rural village in Shanxi, made a bold decision to leave her hometown in search of a better future. Her journey led her to Shanghai, where she crossed paths with Hua Hua, Xu Wei, Xing Tian Ming, Qiao Hai Feng, and Yan Liang Kun - a group of ambitious individuals striving to succeed in the bustling city. Despite facing numerous challenges, Liu Wen Jing's determination and intelligence caught the attention of Xing Tian Ming, who helped her secure a spot in college and a job selling red wine. However, her family's difficult circumstances added to her struggles, as she grappled with financial difficulties and relied on her friends for support. As she navigated through a tumultuous relationship with Ye Hui and witnessed setbacks such as Xing Tian Ming's imprisonment and her mother's passing, Liu Wen Jing realized the importance of resilience. Inspired by her friends' unwavering pursuit of their dreams, she made the decision to rebuild her life and move forward.

Aizawa Rina leads a life filled with youth, beauty, and wealth that many admire. Despite her seemingly perfect existence, Rina carries a lingering memory of her old classmate, Ichijo Ren, deep within her heart. (DramaWiki)

Choi Won is described as "the ideal man" - attractive, tall, and physically fit, with a friendly demeanor. Despite his significant appeal to women, he struggles to maintain a genuine relationship due to his friendship with Oh Ha Na. This romantic comedy revolves around two individuals who have been close friends for two decades (7000 days). As they approach their 34th birthdays, they agree to a pact to marry before they turn 35, competing to reach the altar while “assisting” each other in eliminating possible partners. Throughout this process, they realize they are continually unhappy with each other’s dates, as they have truly been in love with one another all along.

The narrative centers around an extraterrestrial female priest who ventures to Earth in search of a king who has lost connection. She takes residence in the body of an 18-year-old star named Xiao Qin. Struggling to grasp human emotions and relationships, the priest unintentionally causes misunderstandings and comical situations, especially with Gu Liunian.

In the spring of 1999, at a high school in Gyeongju, Dan Hui is well-known among her male classmates as an unusual girl who enjoys playing baseball, while Ha Jin is celebrated as the attractive class president who has triumphed over his past as an orphan. Conversely, Yu Gang is a solitary figure, shunned by her classmates due to her somber demeanor, yet she is constantly watching Ha Jin from afar. Fast forward to the spring of 2006, Ha Jin comes to the aid of Jae Myeong, leading to the formation of a close friendship. Jae Myeong, the son of the President of Mirae Chemicals, uses his influence to secure Ha Jin a position. The President then instructs Jae Myeong to train the company's softball team, hoping it will instill discipline in him. Dan Hui has long admired Jae Myeong as a baseball player and has great expectations for his role as a coach. Initially, Jae Myeong dismisses the softball team, having always played baseball, but as he engages with the team and is inspired by Dan Hui's enthusiasm and hard work, he begins to feel motivated. He sets ambitious goals to turn his team into champions and to elevate Dan Hui to become the top pitcher. Throughout this journey, he finds himself falling for her. Dan Hui, meanwhile, is drawn to Jae Myeong but struggles to open up due to the emotional scars left by her first love. Jae Myeong grows increasingly curious about the man who has caused Dan Hui such pain...

Baek Sang Ah and Han Bok Nyeo are two women who find themselves vying for the affections of Oh Cheon Soo, resulting in a tumultuous relationship filled with love and betrayal.

The story is inspired by a traditional Korean tale about two brothers, Man Bo and Choon Bo. Man Bo is portrayed as a wealthy real estate tycoon who prioritizes wealth and women over everything else, while his younger brother Choon Bo is depicted as kind and submissive. The brothers had been estranged for almost two decades, ever since Choon Bo gave his youngest son, Yeong Goo, to Man Bo in the hopes of having a son. Unfortunately, Choon Bo's wife believed that their youngest son had passed away shortly after birth. After facing financial ruin, Choon Bo turns to his brother for help. He moves into the small house next to Man Bo's, bringing along his three children, daughter-in-law, and wife. Together, they strive for a better future. Tensions arise between the families as Man Bo's wife and daughter try to make life difficult for Choon Bo's daughter, Soo Jin. When Soo Jin and Mi Ree find themselves competing for the same man, the outcome is predictable - the kind-hearted girl emerges victorious. As the two families clash over love, secrets, and money matters, the virtuous brother ultimately teaches the wealthy brother a valuable lesson, echoing the themes of the original Korean folktale.

Han Sa Rang is a screenwriter collaborating with PD Woo. She continues to have unresolved feelings for her ex-boyfriend, who is now her friend, Nam Woo Jung. When PD Woo declares his feelings for her, will she choose to pursue a relationship with him, or will her connection to Woo Jung prevent her from moving on?

The film "Isolation" portrays the routine, aspirations, and romantic endeavors of Jung-woo, a 27-year-old university student living alone. Through his experiences as a solo dweller, the movie sheds light on the current trend towards extreme individualism in society. (Credit: Newsfreezone.co.kr)

This tale follows the lives of six individuals sharing a home, exploring themes of companionship, romance, and family bonds. Through their daily experiences, the story captures both the delightful and chaotic moments they encounter.

After returning from Paris, a young woman starts a small bakery without a name in a secluded alley. She bakes only 3 different desserts each day based on her mood, with no menu available. Despite her mysterious and distant demeanor, a charming young man stumbles upon her shop one day and decides to stay, eventually becoming an employee. As he becomes a part of the bakery, the atmosphere shifts. Will this man be able to help her confront her past and open up her heart?

The narrative revolves around a man named Choi Yoon Jae, who becomes involved in a car crash that leaves his wife, Gyoo Eun, hospitalized and in a coma. Gyoo Eun's closest friend, Park Yeon Seo, harbors secret feelings for Yoon Jae. During Gyoo Eun's unconscious state, her husband and her best friend embark on a romantic relationship. Will Gyoo Eun regain consciousness? If she does, what consequences will follow? (AsianDB)

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)

Seo Young Ji came from a disadvantaged background and dedicated herself to improving her circumstances. She decided to consult a plastic surgeon, believing that altering her looks could lead to a brighter future. The surgeon, a stunning young woman named Jeong Ah Mi, asked Seo Young Ji for a favor. Jeong Ah Mi was supposed to go on a blind date with Kim Jun Woo, but she had no desire to attend. Therefore, she requested Seo Young Ji to pretend to take her place. Seo Young Ji agreed, intending to dissuade the guy, but to her surprise, the blind date went incredibly well, and the two began a relationship. Complicating matters further was Choi Do Kyeong, a determined social climber from a humble background who was willing to do anything to secure a wealthy marriage. He dismissed Seo Young Ji due to her financial status and focused his efforts on pursuing Jeong Ah Mi.

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.

In the past, many of us dreamed of being royalty in fairy tales. As we grew older, we found ourselves conforming to stereotypes like the "Hong Kong Girl" and "Otaku". We seek partners based on superficial traits and material possessions. But have we lost sight of our true dreams?

A romantic tale spanning 5,272 kilometers, connecting Indonesia and Japan. Elly, a student from Indonesia, and Ryo, a young Japanese, first connected through social media. Their relationship blossomed further when they met in person in Japan, spending quality time together and eventually falling in love. Despite facing language and cultural barriers, their love story continues to unfold. (idn.wakuwakujapan)

A love story blossoming between two friends who have known each other since childhood.

Horie Mana enjoys her job as a sales clerk at Tomiya Corporation and harbors feelings for her coworker Hashii Tsubasa. Despite her shy nature, she finds contentment in admiring him from a distance. When Mana's old classmate, Honda Ai, mentions seeing another classmate, Takato Hino, whom Mana had lost touch with, Mana coincidentally encounters Hino. Learning that Hino is going through a divorce and has nowhere to stay, Mana invites her to live with her.

This tale follows the journey of two young boys, Park Kwang Chul and Lee Jae Hoon, who come from different backgrounds but form a strong friendship under unexpected circumstances. As they grow older, they reunite and collaborate as bankers. Together, they assist Hee Kyung, who was raised alongside Park Kwang Chul, in locating her biological father, leading to the revelation of distressing truths from their shared history.

The setting of the drama takes place in the 1970s, a time dominated by poverty but also filled with hope and happiness within families. The main characters are Suk Jin and Chul Jin, two brothers full of youth and spirit, along with Min Joo, Yun Shil's love interest, who face various challenges in life. As they navigate through these obstacles, the drama explores the endless potential of youth, considered the most beautiful phase of life. (SBS)

Kenting can be described as an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway. Situated at the southernmost point of Taiwan, Kenting boasts consistently sunny weather and stunning beaches. It serves as a sanctuary where visitors can temporarily break free from their daily routines and simply enjoy themselves. (DramaWiki)

"Love Forward" is a delightful and stylish romantic comedy that follows two close friends with contrasting backgrounds who support each other through thick and thin. Zheng Ai Xing is savvy, bold, and skilled at avoiding debt collectors, yet struggles with matters of love. Meng Jing Jing, on the other hand, is a rebellious heiress who aims to build a life beyond wealth after growing up in a distant, affluent family. Together, they make an amusing and endearing duo on a quest to find their perfect match.

A narrative depicting the experiences of individuals from evening hours to early morning.

At a crossroads in her career and personal life, a 30-year-old woman named He Mei Liang faces the challenge of starting over. Despite expecting to be thriving in her career, He Mei Liang unexpectedly loses her job in medical equipment sales due to her inability to assert herself. Feeling defeated, she decides to pursue a career in insurance sales, a field she once looked down upon. Determined to succeed, He Mei Liang partners with experienced insurance salesman You Zi Jie, who guides her through the ins and outs of the industry. Can Zi Jie assist He Mei Liang in rebuilding her life and career?